Mental Health Commission of Canada

Mental Health Commission of Canada

Supporting the emotional and social development of youth lays the foundation for mental health and resilience throughout life. The Mental Health Commission of Canada (2012) reinforces the importance of incorporating the concepts of well-being and health promotion into mental health initiatives. When youth needs are considered, strategies that support youth promote mental health, well-being and resilience.

Priority 1.2 of the Mental Health Strategy for Canada (2012) specifically calls on diverse stakeholders such as caregivers, schools and community organizations to support early intervention, promote the mental health of children and youth, and prevent mental illness.

The Youth Mental Health and Addiction Champion (YMHAC) Initiative has supported this priority by collaborating with health, education and social services professionals to support students to be champions of change and to create enhanced levels of awareness, acceptance and healthy behaviours regarding mental health and substance misuse.

http://www.mentalhealthcommission.ca/English/node/721