Create a Minister of Mental Health

Comments

#403

Because OCD cripples him more effectively than not being able to walk would.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-16)

#407

I have many family members that need help in different ways and it is need right now.

(Redvers, 2017-01-16)

#408

Society must care that a life can be helped, with mental health issues.

(Chilliwack, 2017-01-16)

#415

I battle with bouts of depression and anxiety, and they relapse with many people including me. I have done the online therapy with online therapy user and it did help but there are so many people that need human contact. Human contact is essential to fighting things like anxiety and depression. With mental illness seeming to be on the climb we need more help to cope to get better and stay on a healthy path. More $$$ means more space/ beds for those in desperate need, more $$ means more happy healthy people in this world!!!! When it comes to Healthcare mental or physical everyone deserves to be healthy not pushed aside and forgotten.

(Gainsborough , 2017-01-16)

#421

It's time mental health became a priority.

(Regina, 2017-01-16)

#422

I'm signing because I too suffer with depression, and resources are next to none.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-16)

#423

As a health care professional I see the need for more focus and time dedicated to mental health in our province and the smaller centres.

(Moose Jaw, 2017-01-16)

#424

Mental health care is essential. Solving mental health issues now will help save billions later in lost work productivity, health care expenses, and help prevent addiction, family and social problems later.

(Regina, 2017-01-16)

#425

more help is needed in understanding and treating mental health issues. Please help.

(Regina, 2017-01-16)

#426

Mental health and addiction services would hopefully get more focused attention.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-16)

#427

Mental Health is a serious issue in Saskatchewan and needs to be properly addressed by our government, not just pushed away like it has been for years.

(Regina, 2017-01-16)

#429

I have mental health issues in my family and getting the right help is often times difficult.

(Regina, 2017-01-16)

#431

Mental health affects the best of us. Our families and our friends. Lets keep these people alive!

(Indian head , 2017-01-16)

#434

Mental health is on th rise and more needs to in place to help people going through this difficult time in their lives.

(Coronach , 2017-01-16)

#436

Increase funding for help for those with mental health. It's a no brainer.

(Milden, 2017-01-16)

#437

I'm signing because I've seen first hand how this affects families.

(Alida, Sask, 2017-01-16)

#451

I've suffered from BPD for six years, and not until last year did I receive proper steady treatment. I would never want anyone suffering the way I did to wait as long or even longer due to lack of resources.

(Regina, 2017-01-17)

#452

I am signing because on behalf of others I have been dealing with a flawed system for years. It seems as long as we can hide the situations they don't need to be dealt with. Saskatchewan is.behind on this issue.

(Regina, 2017-01-17)

#457

I'm signing because as a teacher, I saw so many mental health issues in our youth, and youth living with parents who do not have appropriate support for mental health issues.

(REGINA, 2017-01-17)

#458

I work in health care and see firsthand that mental health treatment needs more attention.

(Estevan, 2017-01-17)

#459

More mental health services are desperately needed everywhere, please contribute to this.

(Ottawa, 2017-01-17)

#463

This would have positive impacts in many areas.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-17)

#466

There are a multitude of problems in this province/country that have mental health issues at their root cause. One dedicated minister may help consolidate and focus efforts.

(Regina, 2017-01-17)

#471

I'm signing this because it's a splendid idea and it is something that's undoubtedly needed. I too have been turned away more than once because of a lack of beds, and the time I actually did get in, I had to wait in ER for two dats until a bed was free. So many people I know struggle with mental health issues as well and what's available simply isn't enough.

(Regina, 2017-01-17)

#472

In my opinion mental health in Saskatchewan needs to be addressed and supported to the fullest. Our Government needs to step up!

(Indian Head , 2017-01-17)

#473

I believe mental health is a very important issue in this day and age, and one that commonly gets a bad rep. It leaves people to struggle alone for fear of being ridiculed or embarrassed, and that's just not right. I think this would be a big step forward in the fight for mental health.

(Regina, 2017-01-17)

#474

I am concerned the government of Saskatchewan does not provide enough services and resources to those in our province afflicted with mental health issues.

(Esterhazy, SK, 2017-01-17)

#481

Decades from now we'll look back and wonder why it took so long for this to become a government portfolio.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-17)

#483

I suffer from mental health and agree more should be done.

(INDIAN HEAD , 2017-01-17)

#485

Loved ones didn't get the help they needed.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-17)

#487

Mental health is an issue that has long been neglected. It's importance should be paramount as mental health impacts every aspect of an individual suffering from it as well as every aspect of a community and society ignoring it's fundamental value to the well being and functioning of all.

(Calgary, 2017-01-17)

#490

I'm signing because I have struggled with mental health all my life and have repeatedly struggled to access services or to access adequate services when I am able to get in. On multiple occasions this has endangered my life, my ability to maintain my basic income or education, and my family relationships.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-17)

#491

I am reluctant to put resources towards another bureaucrat but if the right person were in that position-I nominate myself-then we might at least see some collaboration with people that actually use or attempt to use mental health services. A transformative cultural shift is required and it won't come from psychiatry or the biomedical reductionist model of health.

(Katepwa, 2017-01-18)

#492

I believe in it

(regina, 2017-01-18)

#493

Serious issue that affects many Canadians.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-18)

#502

No one should be turned away because of a mental illness. We need more funding for mental illnesses and more awareness.

(Regina , 2017-01-18)

#503

Mental health is a National Crisis and needs more attention

(Regina, 2017-01-18)

#505

I am a crisis worker at Mobile Crisis Services in Saskatoon and see the impact of our failing mental health system daily. As a crisis worker I am limited in what support I can provide to those who are struggling and often the most I can do is make a safety plan, refer them to ongoing supports,or attend the emergency room. Often people say the wait was too long in the ER and they leave. It's unfair that people struggling with their mental health are left to wait for hours and hours in a busy room where they feel anxious and scared and are often triaged lower than those with physical health issues or have to wait till the next morning to see a psychiatrist. I strongly believe that a separate mental health intake system could better serve our community.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-18)

#506

If you really believe help for mental illness is readily available in Saskatchewan, try to get help some time...so frustrating!

(Humboldt, 2017-01-18)

#507

Having to wait a year to see a psychiatrist is UNACCEPTABLE!!

(Pittsford, N.Y. 14534, 2017-01-18)

#509

I have went through similar events in the emergency room time and time again. It seems like no one cares and no one can help when times are the most desperate.

(Regina, 2017-01-18)

#510

I have a dream that one day there will be better supports in place then there currently are. We can only get that if we start with taking a step in the right direction. For everyone who has had to support a family member in the system we need to be the voice that will move this issue along the path to more funding and a better outcome for all.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-18)

#511

There are so many young people taking their lives

(McLean, 2017-01-18)

#512

Change is the way forward.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-18)

#514

My own experiences with mental health care in Saskatchewan - for me, my children, and other friends and family - have proven to me that there is not only a shortage of psychiatrists and rehabilitation options but even a lack of understanding of the whole issue by health care workers everywhere and especially in emergency.

(Imperial , 2017-01-18)

#515

I have severe depression and anxiety
My son is newly diagnosed with schizophrenia

(Regina, 2017-01-18)

#516

I'm signing this petition because i have been affected by poor mental health in more ways than one. I often see mental health under valued in our society yet it is one of the most important things to take care of.

(Regina, 2017-01-18)

#521

Our family deals with mental health on a daily basis. The whole mental health system requires and overhaul as it does not meet the needs of those trying to cope and or in dire straits.

(Edgeley, 2017-01-18)

#522

As a young adult living in SK, I have seen first hand the effects of our awful mental health care system. Young people are dying because of it. Why this doesn't have the immediate attention of our gov't is beyond me.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-18)

#523

Our system is failing some of our most vulnerable. Mental health services are greatly lacking throughout the province - we can and need to do better!!

(Christopher Lake, 2017-01-18)

#524

We need to take care of the whole person, including mental health.

(Weyburn, 2017-01-18)

#525

I'm signing because I suffer with Bipolar and I know for a fact that Regina needs help, out mental health ward in RGH is under staffed but they keep the same amount of beds! The nurses are over worked and the patients are the ones losing out. I have spent my own time on the unit there and the nurses are amazing, but when they don't have enough help then we as patients don't have enough help!!!

(Southey, 2017-01-18)

#527

I have family and friends living in Saskatchewan and I know of situations where people are begging for help. Mental illness is the same as any other illness and should be treated as an illness.

(Kamloops, B.C., 2017-01-18)

#528

I lost my nephew to suicide because he was fed drugs instead of treatment. His case was most unusual as his mental illness developed quickly and was hastened by drugs. The psychiatrist that perscribed these drugs was not even familiar with the severe side effects. My nephew was a husband, father, and a wonderful man. Our family is devestated.

(Squamish, 2017-01-18)

#532

I have had a loved one who has struggled with similar experiences.

(Delisle, 2017-01-18)

#534

Improvement in mental health services is sorely needed.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-18)

#536

I have seen this kind of treatment first hand as I have sat with a loved one while they asked for help in the emergency room and were told they would have to wait in emerg until a bed came available, to which one did 18 hours later. Only to go in to Dubai and be told , no there actually wasn't a bed and if they wanted in they would have to go through emerg again. Absolutely sickening that these people finally get up the courage to seek out help and are denied. Thank you so much for sharing your experience and trying to help make the system better for others in need of help. I whole heartedly support the need for change!

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-18)

#537

I'm signing because I suffer from mental health issues since I was a child...it's in my family...my parents...my sister...my kids...when you get so depressed that you want to end it you need the help...and the hospital turns you away...and you are barely hanging on...it's very difficult!!!

(Southey, 2017-01-18)

#541

The lack of support for mental health problems in this province is staggering. An entire Ministry sounds like an excellent idea.

(Regina, 2017-01-18)

#546

I'm signing because my suicidal friend shouldn't have had to wait in the emergency room for three days before receiving proper care.

(Montreal, 2017-01-18)

#548

I'm signing because there is no better time than RIGHT NOW to start caring for our people's mental health on a higher level.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-18)

#550

Because mental health services, and the staffing is UNACCEPTABLE AND UNSAFE

(Regina, 2017-01-18)

#553

My daughter has experienced depression and anxiety since she was in her early teens..I believe we need more help.

(Qu'Appelle , 2017-01-19)

#555

I'm signing because mental health can be a silent killer. It needs more attention than what it gets and too many people do not get the treatment they need and deserve.

(Wolseley, 2017-01-19)

#557

Mental health matters!!!

(Regina , 2017-01-19)

#558

There is so much work to be done in the Mental Health Department. So many flaws.

(Davidson, 2017-01-19)

#559

I'm signing because I lost my son to suicide 6 years ago. I know personally the many flaws in our health care that need immediate attention

(Moose jaw, 2017-01-19)

#561

I have needed serious help. I know others who do as well. The waiting period is insane, it is a known fact by health officials and counsellors the only way to get into the mental health ward is by actually attempting suicide. Crime, addictions, dui's, abuse, neglect, down to lack of productivity in the workforce, can be greatly reduced by addressing mental health issues. Proper diagnosis, including health history and testing for other possible underlying factors that can contribute or cause stress, anxiety are necessary in this province. Help now instead of on a waiting list for a year. Help now instead of desperation. Mental health has been a low priority here and our noteriety for criminal offences and addictions here are a result of a huge lack of resources.

(Regina , 2017-01-19)

#564

When I was in crisis, I struggled to navigate the system and took far too long to get anywhere. I don't want anyone to have the same struggle.

(Regina, 2017-01-19)

#566

Too many people are being ignored and lost, due to cutbacks and lack of support.

(Regina, 2017-01-19)

#567

I believe the resources for mental health are severely inadequate in this province

(White City, SK, 2017-01-19)

#568

I suffer from mental health issues!

(Edmonton, 2017-01-19)

#571

I am signing this because my parents have had to take time out of there busy schedules, to travel up to an 8 hour round trip, not counting the time we spent there, either going to a Aspergers psychiatrist or a Aspergers therapist. I thank them for that every day, but we should haven't to travel that far to get help

(Moose Jaw, 2017-01-19)

#576

I have numerous mental health issues and a strong family history of mental illness yet I am lucky if I can see my therapist once a month due to extreme lack of staffing and resources. Mental health has been a serious issue in my small town and seems to be getting worse lately instead of better. It needs to change.

(Indian Head, 2017-01-19)

#578

I suffer from anxiety and depression, something needs to improve!

(Indian head , 2017-01-19)

#579

I have lived here for 4 years now and seeing how mental wellness issues are dealt with first hand is appalling, how people who suffer are treated and housed are beyond unacceptable. The HOMELESS YOUTH who SUFFER, without help or support is a disgrace.....how many more governmental cuts are coming to an already UNDER-FUNDED area...... THIS IS MOST NEEDED....I am Sure that Brad W'Oil would disagree.......stating that this province can't afford it...

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-19)

#580

Hearing more everyday about teens and teachers requiring more mental health resources out there. This would be great!

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-19)

#584

Because I struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder and the services aren't always what they could be. We need more representation!!

(Regina, 2017-01-19)

#585

I am an Ontario resident, who suffers from PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I also have borderline personality disorder. I have navigated the health care system, in Ontario, for >15 years, and have been spared by finding the proper therapy, medication and followup required for the past 10 years and ongoing. That being said, I'm one of the fortunate few, who is still struggling. Mental health is not something that falls in the context of 'larger issues'. It is a huge issue in its own right. It's time the government - federal and provincial - start recognizing it as such. I think that all levels of government would benefit from a Mental Health ministry, and ensure that Canadians begin to receive the treatment and care not just to keep breathing, but in a quality of life worth living for.

(Ottawa, 2017-01-19)

#587

The more we ignore mental health the sooner we ALL have a problem. Untreated mental health not only affects the person with the mental health issue but it affects their family, coworkers, friends and everyone that comes into contact with the individual with the mental health issue. Everyone at some point in their lives will deal with real issues (loss of a parent, child, job whatever) and as a society we need to help one another through hard times rather than turn people away or to the street for relief.

(Regina, 2017-01-19)

#589

Mental illness has affected me and family members

(McLean , 2017-01-19)

#591

My mom fell through the cracks for too long and her long term mental health suffered as a result. Moreover, she resides in a mental health care home 2 hours away where she is isolated and her symptoms exacerbated because there are no mental health care homes available in Saskatoon where I live.

We need increased resources delegated to mental health as there is a massive lack of support available for those impacted across the province. Further, 80 percent of the population will experience mental health issues at some point in their lives which indicates that this should be a priority for government!

Thank you.

(Saskatoon, 2017-01-20)

#592

I live in rural Saskatchewan there is next to no help out here at all I know far to many people who need help and can't access it very sad

(Redvers, 2017-01-20)

#593

The help is certainly lacking. Perhaps hiring experienced individuals and not those fresh out of university would be a good start. As it is, the quality of care is quite poor, and that is a shame!

(St. Brieux, 2017-01-20)

#595

I too have had to wade through our decpit health care system to have access to adaquit mental servies which are seriously lacking in rural communities which leaves patients in dire straits.

(Broadview, 2017-01-20)

#599

I am a Canadian living in the US but I support this in my home province. Mental health issues are a part of my family and I know first hand the need to do more for it.

(Washington, 2017-01-20)