Mental Illness Awareness Week

Mental Illness affects 1 in 5 Canadians, it is one of the most far-reaching health issues in our nation. What makes the statistic more frightening is that these illnesses are all too often, invisible. People continue to suffer -- hiding in the shadows -- afraid to speak up, afraid of what others will think.

Perhaps you know this well yourself already. The odds predict that you or someone you know has or will have to battle depression, anxiety, bi-polarism...unfortunately the list goes on.

We can all relate at some level yet how often have you seen or heard someone say something like, “that guy’s crazy” or "I would never let myself get like that."

Well, “that guy” is a real person, with a mom and dad, maybe kids of his own. “That guy” could be you. It's time these stigmas are put out and that's just what MIAW is all about.

Canadians take healthcare seriously. Our research facilities and hospitals are the envy of nations worldwide. We have long understood that good health is closely tied to education…we teach our kids that an apple a day, keeps the doctor away.

What do we teach our kids about mental illness? What should we know as adults?

"Face It" the Mental Illness Awareness Campaign is breaking down these barriers by sharing stories through “the faces of mental health”. A group of mental health ambassadors like, Marie and Tazz, are trying to start the conversation to help you understand their life, their challenges.

Meet Tazz

Meet Marie

Fortunately through initiatives like MIAW Canadians are learning more about mental illness than ever before.

And through a special announcement today many more people in our region will have the resources available to get the help they need. When MIAW asked on their Facebook page Monday morning: “How are you raising awareness and fighting stigma?”

I’m thrilled to say that Hamiltonians can answer that bell with distinct pride. ArcelorMittal Dofasco has just donated $1.5-million to St. Joesph’s Healthcare for a new state of the art mental health facility and program.

We are saying “speak up for mental health”.

Will you?