Letter to the Editor
Thunder Bay's Source
May 5, 2006
Think About Mental Health
Mental Health Week 2006 will be celebrated from May 1-7 with the theme "take control of your health, take care of your mind."
During Mental Health Week, the Psychiatric Patient Advocate Office would like to challenge all members of the community to work together to address the physical and mental health needs of all Ontarians, fostering a culture of health and wellbeing for everyone.
Practicing mind and body fitness centres on a healthy mind, body and spirit and allows us to lead a well-balanced and fulfilling life while coping with the daily stressors and pressures of life.
However, for many individuals with mental illness there are formidable barriers to surmount in the pursuit of mental health, wellness and recovery. Some of these include overcoming the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness, accessing needed and wanted care and treatment, and being included in an accepting and understanding community.
The social determinants of health must be addressed if we are to support people in achieving good physical and mental health. This includes access to adequate education, employment, income, housing, and social support.
During Mental Health Week, let's make a renewed commitment to supporting and assisting people to take control of their health and take care of their minds. It is often said that there is no health without mental health so let this become our call to action to the benefit of all Ontarians.
Sincerely,
Jane MacKenzie
Patient Advocate (A)
Psychiatric Patient Advocate Office
Thunder Bay
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