Ottawa – Everyone in Canada deserves a health system that provides each of us with access to the services we need, when and where we need them. The availability and types of mental health and substance use supports can vary across Canada, which can lead to inconsistencies in quality and accessibility. To help address this challenge, Health Canada commissioned the …
Minister of Health speaks on impacts of suicide
Ottawa – Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health said: “Every day in Canada, approximately 12 people die by suicide. The impacts of suicide extend far beyond the individual – each life lost sends ripples of pain through family, friends, and communities. “As we mark World Suicide Prevention Day, let us remember those lives …
Joint Ministers’ Message from Canada for AIDS 2024 Conference
Ottawa – Canada is reaffirming its commitment to end HIV as a public health concern by participating in the 25th International AIDS Conference in Munich, Germany. This conference brings together those living with, affected by and working on HIV to share knowledge, best practices and lessons learned to address HIV globally, improve the health of all people in Canada and …
Strengthening Health Care System in Canada
Ottawa – Canadians deserve better access to health care services and affordable medicines, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay. However, the health system in Canada has been facing significant challenges, such as overwhelmed emergency rooms, lack of access to a family doctor, and health care workers under enormous strain. The Government of Canada knows concerted and …
Canada on Tobacco & Vaping Products Act legislative review
Ottawa – More than 46,000 people in Canada die because of tobacco use every year. Through Canada’s Tobacco Strategy, the Government of Canada is working to save lives and significantly reduce the number of Canadians who smoke cigarettes and use other tobacco products from the current rate of 12% to less than 5% of the population by 2035. Ya’ara Saks, …
Canada launches consultation to inform design of Youth Mental Health Fund
Ottawa – Providing timely access to appropriate mental health care is an essential part of ensuring every young person in Canada can reach their full potential. Stress and anxiety are taking a toll on the mental health of young people. Easy and equitable access to mental health services, where and when they need them, is key to helping young people …
Canada Integrated Youth Services Collaboration Centre
Helping community-based hubs support the wellbeing of young people Ottawa – Young people across Canada are struggling with their mental health and it’s crucial that they have timely access to appropriate services and supports in the communities where they live. Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, launched a national call for proposals to develop …
Canada celebrates National Blood Donor Week June 9-15
Ottawa – National Blood Donor Week and World Blood Donor Day on June 14, is an important time to raise awareness about blood, plasma and blood products donation and recognize the donors who help save lives with their contributions. In Canada, the demand for blood, plasma, and blood products remains high, especially among certain racial and ethnic communities. Donors from …
Govt invests in research on effective substance use interventions
Ottawa – Research plays a crucial role in understanding the complexities of substance use, guiding effective interventions, and ultimately saving lives. That’s why we must leverage Canada’s exceptional research talent and expertise to ensure our substance use health interventions, services, and policies are effective, equitable, and evidence-informed. Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, …
Expanding integrated youth service networks across Canada
Toronto – Younger Canadians are facing unique challenges right now, grappling with the effects of war and conflict, climate change, and a rising cost of living. Their mental health needs are complex, and our response needs to mirror that reality. We have an opportunity to listen to our youth and work with them to create better mental health resources and …