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Employers, Organizations Encouraged To Support Mentally Ill

Tuesday, 23 September 2014 15:48

CMHA Oxford County wants to see more support through organizations and employers for those living with mental illness.

Statistics Canada says nearly 73% of us in Oxford County are flourishing in life, but the CMHA says more work needs to be done to have everyone feeling great.

Mike McMahon, Executive Director of the Oxford County branch of CMHA, says there is a vast difference in experience between those who are, and are not, flourishing.

"The most challenging is that of the one third of people that are not flourishing, they are also not seeking assistance because the continued affective stigma in our communities.  Why can't we seek care?  And why, if you're my neighbour and you're ill, are you not able to seek care?  Those are difficult questions and the statistics continue to emphasize that for our communities, for our politicians, and I think that Oxford County can reflect on that as well."

McMahon and the CMHA encourage community leaders and employers to build a support system, or safety net, within their organization or workaplce.

"It's a place where it's safe and someone can be confident to say that 'I'm not well today' and the person won't perceive any difference between mental wellness and physical wellness, it's all the same."

McMahon says they are constantly working at the CMHA to provide education about mental illness, and helping youth understand how to take care of their mental health.

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