For Immediate Release
October 8, 2010
In recognition of both Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 3-9) and World Mental Health Day (October 10), the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) applauds the efforts of the many mental health advocacy organizations that work continuously towards preventing mental illness and promoting the mental well-being of all Canadians.
“One in every five Canadians will have a mental health challenge at some point in their lifetime. Reducing the stigma associated with mental health is the responsibility of us all,” noted CASW President Darlene MacDonald.
Globally, mental health conditions are responsible for a great deal of mortality and disability. They account for 13% of the total burden of disease due to health conditions, according to a recent World Health Organization (WHO) report on mental health and development entitled, Targeting people with mental health conditions as a vulnerable group. Furthermore, depression is projected to become the second highest cause of disease burden in middle-income countries by 2030.
In the effort to coordinate resources to prevent mental illness and promote mental health in Canada, CASW, as a member of the Mental Health Table (comprised of 12 of Canada’s national associations representing health care professionals) helped to develop a national mental health forum in Ottawa on October 5-6. A report from the forum, entitled Which Doors Lead to Where? How to Enhance Access to Mental Health Service: Barriers, Facilitators and Opportunities for Canadians’ Mental Health, will soon be available.
“Only through sustained government support, combined with the strength of those living with mental illness and the unrelenting advocacy of organizations on their behalf, will Canada win the battle to de-stigmatize mental illness,” stated MacDonald.
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For more information:
Darlene MacDonald, President
casw@casw-acts.ca Tel.: 613.729.6668