Media advisory - Mental Health Commission of Canada to present to federal public safety committee

OTTAWA, March 9, 2016 /CNW/ - The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) will appear before the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security to examine occupational stress injuries, namely post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The MHCC will guide the committee through the multiple levels at which PTSD needs to be addressed: prevention; anti-stigma; diagnosis; and treatment.

Prevention and anti-stigma are central to the MHCC's Road to Mental Readiness program, originally developed by the Department of National Defence for the Canadian Forces and modified for civilian workplace settings. The program teaches techniques to manage stress, build resiliency and overcome stigma.

Diagnosis and treatment are addressed in the MHCC's joint project with the Mood Disorders Society of Canada (MDSC) that will prepare health care providers in Canada to recognise, diagnose and initiate treatment of PTSD. Outreach and training to Canada's physicians and nurses is an effective way to provide immediate help for anyone, including veterans and first responders, living with PTSD.

What:	Joint presentation by the MHCC and the MDSC to the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security
When:	Thursday, March 10, 2016 12-1 p.m.
Who:	Louise Bradley, MHCC President and CEO Phil Upshall, MDSC National Executive Director
Where:	131 Queen Street, Room 7-52

Media availability immediately following the presentation.

Additional Resources

Media Release - National, proven solutions for suicide prevention and PTSD presented to federal government 
MHCC Federal Pre-Budget Proposal 2016 
Michael Wilson: Aid for suicide prevention must be part of federal budget, Globe and Mail        

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ABOUT THE MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION OF CANADA

The Mental Health Commission of Canada is a catalyst for change. We are collaborating with hundreds of partners to change the attitudes of Canadians toward mental health problems and to improve services and support. Our goal is to help people who live with mental health problems and illnesses lead meaningful and productive lives. Together we create change. The Mental Health Commission of Canada is funded by Health Canada.

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SOURCE Mental Health Commission of Canada

For further information: Media Contact: Kate Headley, Manager of Marketing and Communications, Mental Health Commission of Canada, Mobile: [phone], [e-mail]