CMHA-NS launches campaign to support alarming increase in mental health calls

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia (April 6, 2020) – Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian Mental Health Association – Nova Scotia Division (CMHA NS) is seeing first-hand the impact of  COVID-19 on Nova Scotians.

“Every day we receive an alarming increase in the number of calls from Nova Scotians who deal with isolation, anxiety, and stress, even among those with no previous history of any mental health condition,” said Pamela Magee, Executive Director. “We’re working hard to meet demands, but we require the support of our communities to help Nova Scotians build mental resilience so they can adapt to this ever-changing challenge.”

Today CMHA NS launched the COVID-19 Caring Together fundraising appeal at CaringTogetherNS.ca to address the urgent need for additional support. Donations will go directly to increase staff for mental health support phone lines and expanding online mental health resources, such as the Wellness Hub.

“Now, more than ever it is important for those with mental health conditions and those at risk to have the support they need,” says Magee. “Good mental and emotional health is about receiving the proper support in troubling times to stay in control and in balance.”

ABOUT CMHA-NS

CMHA-NS is the oldest community-based mental health and addictions charitable organization in the province and delivers community-based supports and services to promote positive mental health and prevent mental health-related injury and disease.

QUICK FACTS

• The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 1/3 to 1/ 2 of our population will experience challenges with mental health if we do not support our mental health daily through the regular use of positive coping practices.
• At this time, one in three Canadians will experience mental health issues or mental illness in any given year, this number is will increase due to the pandemic.
• People with a mental illness are twice as likely to have a substance use issue compared to the general population. At least 20% of people with a mental illness have a co-occurring substance use issue.
• Contact the Mental Health Mobile Crisis Team at 1-902-429-8167 or 1-888-429-8167
• To donate to the CMHA NS Caring Together fund, visit www.CaringTogetherNS.ca

– 30 –

Media Contact:
Robyn McIsaac
Tel: 902-440-1551
[email protected]