News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Several events and activities were organized across the province to raise awareness about mental illness during Mental Health Week.

“The mental health of New Brunswickers is important and it is a pleasure to recognize everyone who made a difference this week to promote good mental health,” said Social Development Minister Cathy Rogers. “Whether it is by organizing or participating in an event or by openly talking about the subject, New Brunswickers made a difference this week.”

To kick-off the week, Premier Brian Gallant joined Rogers, Health Minister Victor Boudreau and Moncton East MLA Monique LeBlanc in the Shoppers Drug Mart Run for Women held in Moncton on May 1.

Gallant participated in the launch of Fresh Perspective design, a new clothing line under the Joe Fresh brand with two fashion designers Kyle MacNevin and Kayley Reed. Their clothing line aims to take the stigma out of mental illness and is sold exclusively in four superstores across Canada; Fredericton, Toronto, Vancouver and Ottawa.

Gallant also joined officials from the New Brunswick Health Research Foundation and other research partners to announce $8 million in investments to help fund adapted, improved and more responsive research activities in youth mental health in the province.

Boudreau and Rogers participated in the Partners for Youth sponsored Youth Summit, which focused specifically on youth mental health. The event gave an opportunity for high school students to identify and share their thoughts on issues related to mental health and well-being. The input and feedback gathered will be used by the government to set priorities to address the needs faced by youth.

Boudreau also announced a partnership with Ambulance New Brunswick and the Mental Health Commission of Canada to bring the Road to Mental Readiness program to paramedics, flight nurses and dispatchers in New Brunswick. Road to Mental Readiness is a training program that addresses stigmas and identifies the signs and symptoms of occupational stress injuries. It will help to build resilience against occupational stress injuries.

“I am proud to say that we had a successful Mental Health Week in New Brunswick,” said Boudreau. “I commend all our community partners who did a wonderful job in organizing special events to raise awareness about mental health.”