Mental Health Week

Mental Health Week History

Mental Health Week aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and to break down the stigma surrounding mental illness. This observance is of particular significance as mental health issues affect millions of people worldwide, impacting their daily lives and relationships. Mental Health Week encourages Canadians to be more conscious of their own mental well-being and opens up conversations about mental health, ensuring that people feel supported and understood in their struggles.

In Canada, the concept of a week dedicated to mental health dates back to 1951 when the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) introduced the National Mental Health Week. Since then, it has evolved into an annual event that emphasizes the need for continued conversations about mental health in the country. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, discussions about mental health are as relevant as ever, as it has significantly affected many people's mental well-being. In light of this, the CMHA and various other organizations in Canada have been working tirelessly to improve access to mental health resources and promote awareness.

Each year, Mental Health Week is observed through a range of activities and events across Canada. Schools, workplaces, and community organizations come together to host awareness campaigns, workshops, and seminars that address the different aspects of mental health. Such initiatives help to facilitate the sharing of personal experiences and provide information on resources available for support. In Canada, Mental Health Week is observed annually during the first full week of May, with this year's event taking place from May 2nd to May 8th. As Canadians, we can all contribute to raising awareness and ensuring a mentally healthier future for everyone.

Top facts about Mental Health Week

• The theme for Mental Health Week in 2024 Movement: Moving more for our mental health.
  In 2023, the theme was Together We Care. Together We Share.
• According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, every year about 1 in 5 people in Canada experience a mental health problem or illness.
• According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 70% of mental health problems start to occur during childhood or adolescence.

In the News and Trending for Mental Health Week

Top things to do for Mental Health Week

• Explore articles and information about keeping your Mental Health in check.
• Donate to the Canadian Mental Health Association to help fund resources for Canadians struggling with mental health.
• Watch Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's Mental Health Week video message.
• Watch The Weight of Gold. This documentary sheds light on the mental health struggles faced by professional athletes, specifically related to the Olympic athletes who are under immense pressure to perform at an elite level.