Statement by Liberal Party of Canada Leader Justin Trudeau on Mental Health Week

May 4, 2015

OTTAWA – The Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Mental Health Week:

“Mental Health Week is an opportunity for us all to have a candid discussion about mental health issues and awareness.

“During their lifetimes, one in five Canadians will experience a mental health issue. It is crucial that we foster a welcoming environment for free and frank discussion. I am constantly inspired by my mother, Margaret, and the many other Canadians who have chosen to raise awareness about mental illness by sharing their personal struggles.

“We must take real action. In addition to initiatives like Mental Health Week, which are essential to promoting positive mental health, we need to do more to prevent mental illness, expand access to care and recovery services and support, and work to combat the stigma of mental illness.

“On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary Caucus, I reaffirm our call for the federal government to fully implement Canada’s mental health strategy, and ask all Canadians to help spread compassion and awareness of mental health issues.”