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House of Commons

HANSARD

October 2, 2012

Mr. Speaker,

This week marks the 20^th anniversary of Mental Illness Awareness Week, organized by the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health. Because of it, we hear the inspirational stories of Canadians living in recovery from mental illness. Mental Illness Awareness Week reaches out to organizations and people across Canada to raise awareness on the importance of mental health and the need for increased access to mental health services for all Canadians.

One in five Canadians experiences a mental health issue, so it remains a matter that touches us all. The recent Mental Health Strategy by the Mental Health Commission of Canada made very clear recommendations on what all levels of government must do, to address mental health, in a way that is comprehensive, accessible and forward looking. It is critically important that the federal government show leadership and implement the recommendations.

I hope all MPs will join in celebrating the courage and resilience of the six million Canadians living with mental illness.