Mental health problems can affect anyone at any time.

Like physical health, mental health challenges have nothing to do with weakness or lacking will-power. Although individuals can play a big part in their own recovery, they did not choose to become ill.

Mental health concerns are not a single disease but a broad term that refers to many disorders. Anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, personality disorders, eating disorders and organic brain disorders can cause misery, tears and missed opportunities for thousands of Canadians.

People with mental health concerns are not violent and dangerous. In fact, as a group, people with mental health concerns are no more violent than any other group. They are more likely to be the victims of violence than to be violent themselves.

People facing mental health issues are not always poor or less intelligent. Many studies show that most people with mental health concerns have average or above-average intelligence. Mental illness, like physical illness, can affect anyone regardless of intelligence, social class or income level.  

Mental health challenges can begin in early childhood. With early detection and support, children facing mental health issues can lead healthy and actives lives.