Focus on Cooperation for a Stronger Mental Health Community

Belleville, October 25, 2023 — Today, a new national mental health collaboration was launched. The Canadian Community Mental Health Network (CCMHN) unifies individual community-based organizations across Canada by fostering collaborations to address resource gaps and enhance mental health support across the country.

“The CCMHN embodies the values of community, collaboration, innovation, and advocacy. The network will serve as a collaborative platform for various research and service provider disciplines to advance our understanding, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders,” said CCMHN member, Dave Gallson, National Executive Director of Mood Disorders Society of Canada.

Specifically, CCMHN will focus on five key pillars of the values of community, collaboration, innovation, and advocacy:

  • Networking – Forging connections with the power to bridge gaps in care, and improve patient outcomes.
  • Collaboration – Uniting standalone community mental health organizations, local healthcare workers, researchers, Persons with Lived/Living Experience, family, caregivers, and other key stakeholders.
  • Advocacy – Building, innovating, and supporting a culture of evidence-based decision making together.
  • Increased Access to Care – Meeting Canadians where they are and when they need support.
  • Lived Experience – The perspectives of those with Lived/Living Experiences informing all the network activities.

“Mental illness goes beyond a solitary journey, affecting millions of Canadians directly and indirectly. Its impact reaches families, social groups, workplaces, and healthcare systems across Canada,” added Gallson. “By uniting efforts, and pooling resources as individuals on the front lines, the network will make a positive impact on the lives of those seeking support and care.”

CCMHN member Jacqui Wasacase from the Rainbow Youth Centre in Regina added, “We are in a crisis in our communities when it comes to mental wellness. Ensuring access to mental health and wellness is crucial and critical to create opportunities for youth and young adults to fully recognize their self-worth. CCMHN opens the door for agencies that empower youth, family and community to research, advocate and collaborate.“

The vision of CCMHN is to create a future where prevention and treatment outcomes are improved, mental health services are enhanced, and informed policymaking positively impacts the lives of individuals and communities affected by mental health challenges.

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