Health and Community Services
April 27, 2015
The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Kent, Minister of Health and Community Services:
Minister Highlights Mental Health Matters Conference
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in this Honourable House to highlight an inspiring mental health awareness event that took place this past Friday and Saturday. On Friday evening in St. John's, Premier Davis and I joined the students and staff at Holy Heart High School, as well as a host of local and national advocacy groups for Mental Health Matters.
The conference brought people with diverse perspectives on mental health together to discuss ways to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with mental illnesses, particularly in young people. This is one of the most effective ways we can ensure those with mental health issues reach out for the support and guidance they need. The event included participation from an array of mental health advocates and organizations, students and staff. There were presentations and workshops on topics ranging from relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation to anxiety management. It was fantastic to meet with students, staff and interest groups who had all come together with one goal in mind: mental health awareness in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Mr. Speaker, mental health and addictions remain a key priority for the Provincial Government. About one in five of us will live with a mental illness in any given year. We are very aware of the challenges people are facing with these issues and remain committed to ensuring youth and adults have access to the programs and services they need. This past year, two new 12-bed treatment centres opened in Grand Falls-Windsor and Paradise for youth with addictions and complex mental health needs. Work is also progressing on a new adult addictions centre in Harbour Grace, which is scheduled to be complete in 2015.
The Mental Health Crisis Line offers 24/7 telephone crisis intervention services to provide guidance and support anytime, anywhere in the province. We had the opportunity to launch our latest awareness video for the crisis line at the event on Friday night as well. The video can be viewed on the Provincial Government's YouTube channel.
Mr. Speaker, it was a privilege to join such a large gathering of people who share the same commitment to addressing mental health concerns in our province. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the event organizers, including co-chair Patrick Hickey and the staff and students at Holy Heart High School, for their tremendous efforts to increase awareness and education on mental health for youth in our province.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
- 30 -
2015 04 27 1:45 p.m.