Health and Community Services
May 2, 2016

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services:

Newfoundlanders and Labradorians Encouraged to GET LOUD for Mental Health

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May 2 to 8 as Mental Health Week. On Thursday past, I joined members of the Newfoundland and Labrador Division of the Canadian Mental Health Association to officially proclaim this week.

All week long, Confederation Building will be lit green to raise awareness and build support for mental health.

This year'ss theme, GET LOUD, encourages people to stand up, speak out and join the conversation to help end the discrimination and stigma that exists around mental health. This week is an opportunity to take action for those who struggle. For someone at work; for someone at school; a family member; or, for ourselves.

I want to highlight Bridge the gAPP � a free online mental health app accessible from a computer, tablet or phone that connects youth and adults with guidance and supports for mental health. The app is available for free download on the Apple App Store or through Google Play or at bridgethegapp.ca. Bridge the gAPP also connects individuals to the BreathingRoom � an online self-management program that assists people in managing stress, depression and anxiety. I encourage everyone to try these tools for themselves.

On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I commend the many groups and individuals throughout our province who continue to advocate for mental health throughout the year.

We are pleased to be part of the All-Party Committee on mental health and addictions and are eager to move towards the development of recommendations that will be brought forward in the House of Assembly on how to improve overall programs and services in Newfoundland and Labrador. We aim to have this completed by the end of June.

I encourage all residents to raise their voices and GET LOUD for mental health.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

2016 05 02                             2:00 p.m.