"The Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) is delighted with the Prime Minister's announcement of the members of the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Commission of Canada" stated Dr. Thomas Hadjistavropoulos, the Association's President. "This is a great moment for Canadians since mental health issues affect us all."

Canada needs a mental health strategy. Without a plan, it is impossible to effectively develop and co-ordinate services and to evaluate progress. One of the objectives of the Commission is to develop a national mental health strategy.

The country also needs an anti-stigma campaign. People with mental health problems are not second class citizens. They are our family members, friends, neighbours, co-workers and ourselves. Individuals with mental health issues deserve the respect and services available to those with other health issues. The Commission will develop and implement an anti-stigma campaign during the next ten years.

CPA is also delighted with the announcement of two psychologists to the Board of Directors, Drs. Lorraine Breault and Fern Stockdale-Winder. Dr. Breault is the Associate Dean in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at the University of Alberta. She is a former President of the Psychological Association of Alberta, Chair of the Council of Provincial Associations of Psychologists and member of the Board of Directors of the Canadian Psychological Association.

Dr. Stockdale-Winder is the Director of the Department of Clinical Health Psychology and Professional Leader of Psychology for the Saskatoon Health Region. She currently chairs the Health Region's Senior's Mental Health Steering Committee and has a strong interest in the promotion of mental well being.

"We congratulate these two outstanding psychologists in their appointment to the Board of Directors of the Mental Health Commission of Canada" stated Dr. Hadjistavropoulos. "

The important role of former Senator Michael Kirby and Senator Wilbert Keon was underscored by the Prime Minister. Out of the Shadows at Last, the final report of the Senate Committee which examined mental health issues in Canada, was the blueprint for the development of the Commission. "The psychology community thanks the members of the Senate committee and particularly the Government of Canada for making the Commission a reality."

Canadian Psychological Association