Mental Health Facts

Mental illness affect one in every five people
The first symptoms of severe, chronic forms of mental illness (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and anxiety disorders) generally appear between the ages of 15 and 24.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people ages 15-24.
Only 1 in 5 who need mental health services receive them.
Mental illnesses can be treated effectively. For those who get help, 80% are able to return to their regular activities.
Peer support, understanding of one’s illness, overall wellness, employment and education are crucial to achieving and maintaining recovery.
In Nova Scotia, less than 4% of the Health Care budget is spent on Mental Health Services

(From the Mental Health Coalition of NS)

The investment the federal government has made in health promotion and disease prevention: $300 million over five years and $74.4 million ongoing allocations.
The percentage of Canadians who have a mental illness in any given year: 10.4 %
The percentage of the $300 million (over five years) dedicated to mental health: 1.5 %
The percentage of the $74.4 million ongoing money allocated for mental health: 1.3%

(From the Mood Disorders Association of Canada)