Mental illnesses constitute more than 15% of the burden of disease in Canada and yet these illnesses receive less than 6% of health care dollars. Partly because of the underfunded nature of the system, and partly because of the stigma associated with seeking mental health care, it is the people close to those suffering from mental illness who do much of the supporting. The friends and family of those with mental health problems connect them with resources, act as a shoulder to cry on, and stand by them through everything.
We’ve created this website to tell their stories and to help show that they are not alone. Choose from one of three perspectives and hear real-life testimonies from parents, children, and friends of people that have suffered from mental illness. We are proud and honoured to bring you their stories.