Celebrating the Sister Margaret Smith Centre

Sister Margaret Smith Centre is celebrating the first anniversary of the new state of the art, environmentally friendly facility, which opened in the Fall of 2009. We were truly blessed and very grateful that Sister Margaret Smith was with us to participate in the opening ceremonies on October 16, 2009. Her warmth and compassion and words of encouragement continue to inspire us all.

Over the past year, SMSC has been privileged to provide programs and services for more than 5,000 clients and family members who have found the courage and strength to reach out for help on their journey toward recovery.

The public interest in the new facility has been remarkable. SMSC is the first Leading Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building constructed in NW Ontario. In the past year, we have hosted more than 75 tours for 547 neighbours, community partners, emergency service personnel and dignitaries.

The values and principles that influence the delivery of care and design of the new facility have been realized and echoed in the kind comments of the people we serve who consistently describe the setting as "warm and welcoming". For further information about the services and supports offered, please call (807) 684-5100 or visit our website at www.sjcg.net.

Nancy Black
Manager, Mental Health, Addiction & Problem Gambling Programs

The Mental Health Commission of Canada

Mental illness affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. It can take many forms, including depression, anxiety and schizophrenia. Most individuals find ways to live with their illnesses but how they are treated by others often proves to be more of a challenge than the illness itself. Stigma and discrimination are key barriers that stop people from seeking help.

The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) has launched its 10-year Anti-stigma / Anti-discrimination Initiative, Opening Minds. The initiative is the largest systematic effort to reduce the stigma of mental illness in Canadian history. It is much-needed and long overdue.

To read more about this initiative and the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) visit www.mentalhealthcommission.ca/English/Pages/OpeningMinds.aspx.

Check out the MHCC 2010 Summer Newsletter

Out of the Shadows at Last

The Honourable Michael J. L. Kirby, Chair of the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology released a new report in May 2006 outlining the state of mental health and mental illness in Canada.

Read the Report (1.25mb pdf)