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New data reveals that 88% of people living in Atlantic Canada want universal mental health care

May 1, 2023

PRESS RELEASE

[HALIFAX | KJIPUKTUK] – People living in Atlantic Canada believe that we are in a mental health crisis and that governments are not doing enough about it. A recent survey conducted for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) found that 88% of Atlantic Canadians agree that all Canadians should have access to universal mental health care.  

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. 

“We hear stories from people across the country every day that services are hard to find and not available to everyone,” says Margaret Eaton, National CEO, CMHA. “Just like physical health, mental health is important to living a fully engaged life. Which is why mental health services should be fully covered.” 

The survey found that of the 40% of Atlantic Canadians who have experienced a mental health concern in the past year, 14% did not reach out for help because it is too expensive and 59% didn’t reach out because they don’t know where to find it. The research also showed that 57% of people living in the Atlantic Provinces would access mental health care through a community organization with a free program.  

“Mental health care doesn’t just happen in a doctor’s office or in a hospital. There are community-based mental health services that work together with the medical system, and they need to be properly funded. They must also be easy-to-find, free and available where people live, work and play,” Karn Nichols, Executive Director of CMHA Nova Scotia Division.   

The release of these findings aligns with CMHA’s 72nd annual Mental Health Week, May 1-7, 2023. This year’s theme is MY STORY and aims to shine a spotlight on community mental health care champions, programs and communities while showcasing the importance of securing universal mental health care. 

This Mental Health Week, we can harness the power of storytelling to help build connections and understanding between each other while strengthening our communities. To get involved, you can: 

About CMHA NS

The Canadian Mental Health Association Nova Scotia Division [CMHA NS] supports the resilience, recovery and well-being of people living with a mental illness and those experiencing mental health challenges across the province.

We deliver safe, inclusive evidence-based programs, training and navigation support that Nova Scotians need to be well and stay well. These programs are free to access and available to everyone living in Nova Scotia.

We advocate for policy change that supports the social determinants of health, including housing, employment and job insecurity, working life conditions, social inclusion and non-discrimination, and access to affordable health services of decent quality.

We are also part of a federation, which means we are a collective of organizations across the country, bound together by a brand and mission.

For media inquiries: 

Contact Erin Christie, Provincial Lead, Communications and Community Engagement,

CMHA NS Division at [email protected]

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