This year, May 5-11, marks the 74th National Mental Health Week. As we approach Mental Health Week, we are reminded of the importance of raising awareness and fostering an environment that promotes wellness for all members of our communities. This year’s theme is about “Unmasking Mental Health,” which focuses on breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and encourages openness and honestly in conversations about mental health and well-being.
A recent report released in 2024 by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) showed that mental health concerns among Canadians have tripled. Twenty-six percent (26%) of Canadians reported having “poor” or “fair” mental health in 2021, a significant increase from 8.9% in 2019.
This Mental Health Week, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is encouraging everyone to #unmaskmentalhealth by looking beyond the surface and create space for open and honest conversations about how we are really doing. Whether it’s dealing with stress, going through a tough time, or just feeling overwhelmed, it is important to remember that mental health matters. It is part of our overall health and deserves just as much care and attention.
Join us this May for #MentalHealthWeek by taking part in meaningful conversations and community activities with help from resources by OPH:
- How to haveTHATtalk About Mental Health with Newcomer and Diverse Populations – a community event hosted by OPH’s Mental Health Team in partnership with Ottawa West Four Rivers Ontario Health Team. This workshop is open to any service providers working and supporting newcomers and multicultural communities, looking for tools and resources to support conversations about mental health with newcomers and diverse populations. Join in virtually on May 9th from 11:30 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Registration Link: https://forms.office.com/r/evhLVcgWBC
- Take OPH’s Stigma: How You Can Impact Change course, available through Olearn.Ottawa.ca. This interactive training is available in English and French and takes about 20 minutes to complete. Take this course to learn more about stigma, what we can do to reduce stigma and how to communicate in a supportive way.
As we unmask mental health and encourage open and honest conversations, it is important to know that resources are available:
- Follow this link Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Services and Resources – Ottawa Public Health for a detailed list of Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health resources for different populations.
- Get the conversation started by watching 1 of the 13 National Standards for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace videos. Check out this video on Psychological Health and Social Support in the Workplace. For additional videos and resources on the 13 factors, be sure to check out haveTHATtalk.ca
- Visit CMHA Mental Health Week – Canadian Mental Health Association for more information about this year’s theme, tools and activities.
- Check out OPH’s social media accounts (Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram) throughout the week for resources and supports to share.
Taking care of our mental health is something we do better when we support each other. When going through challenges or illness, it helps to talk about how you are doing with the people you love and trust so they can support you. It is up to you to decide if and when you share, but it can really help to have positive supports in your life when going through difficult times. A reminder that you are not expected to share information with others in your workplace, however, if support is offered, please ensure confidentiality is maintained.
Let’s unmask mental health together – with honesty, care and compassion. This week, and every week, take care of each other and let’s come together to build a community that is healthier, stronger and more supportive for everyone.
