Released on October 8, 2013
Mental Illness Awareness Week, October 6 – October 12
Government today recognized Mental Illness Awareness Week in Saskatchewan.
“With one in five people in Saskatchewan experiencing a mental health or addiction issue we are well aware that mental illness does not discriminate,” Health Minister Dustin Duncan said. “It can affect people of all ages, in all walks of life, and in varying situations, which is why government is taking action on this important issue.”
In May, government announced it will be developing an inter-ministerial Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan led by the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the ministries of Education, Social Services, and Justice, including Corrections and Policing. In June, Dr. Fern Stockdale Winder was appointed as the commissioner leading this important work.
The plan’s objective is to learn from clients, families and service providers how existing mental health and addictions services can be improved to better meet the needs of Saskatchewan residents.
In 2013-14, government allocated approximately $234 million toward mental health programs and services. Funding is allocated to each of the 13 health regions province-wide to provide a range of local community-based mental health services to children, youth and their families. Of that, approximately $140 million provides clients access to important assessment and treatment services both in hospitals and in their community.
Work on the Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan is in development. The commissioner began meeting with stakeholder groups in August and a broader public consultation will begin in the coming weeks. The completed plan is set to be released in fall 2014.
“This plan will pave the way for making meaningful change in the lives of individuals affected by mental health and addictions issues,” Duncan said.
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For more information, contact:
Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: tyler.mcmurchy@health.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-3594