Mental Health Facts! (CANADA)

-Mental illness affect one in every five people

-The first symptoms of severe, chronic forms of mental illness (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders) generally appear between the ages of 15 and 24.

-Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people ages 15-24.

-Only 1 in 5 who need mental health services receive them.

-Mental illnesses can be treated effectively. For those who get help, 80% are able to return to their regular activities.

-Peer support, understanding of one’s illness, overall wellness, employment and education are crucial to achieving and maintaining recovery.

-In Nova Scotia, less than 4% of the Health Care budget is spent on Mental Health Services
(From the Mental Health Coalition of NS)

The investment the federal government has made in health promotion and disease prevention: $300 million over five years and $74.4 million ongoing allocations.

-The percentage of Canadians who have a mental illness in any given year: 10.4 %

-The percentage of the $300 million (over five years) dedicated to mental health: 1.5 %

-The percentage of the $74.4 million ongoing money allocated for mental health: 1.3%
(From the Mood Disorders Association of Canada)