Ottawa – The Canadian Mental Health Association says it is concerned for underfunded community-based mental health services as some patients might not have access to that support. According to Government of Canada, about 4,500 people in Canada die by suicide every year. To address this crisis, the Canadian government announced a three-year investment plan of $156 million into a national three-digit suicide prevention and emotional distress helpline – 988 – to better support Canadians in need. The survey found that of the 35% of people who have experienced a mental health concern in the past year, more than one-third did not reach out for help primarily because it is too expensive or because they don’t know where to find it. The research also showed that more than half of people living in Canada (57%) would access mental health care through a community organization with a free program. Universal mental health care means the services needed are available, they are funded through public health insurance plans and free to the individual, and they are the same – no matter where a person lives or who they are. Universal mental health care meets everyone’s needs.Canada Suicide Prevention Helpline is (1-833-456-4566).
