September is Recovery Month Across the Province

The Voice of Canada News

Every year, 2.5 million Ontarians experience a mental health or addictions challenge. Ontario is joining Addictions and Mental Health Ontario to mark the province’s thirteenth annual Recovery Month. This September, the government is building awareness, challenging stigma and recognizing the role that recovery plays in improving the lives of individuals, families and communities dealing with addictions.

Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade and MPP for Nipissing, and Natalia Kusendova, MPP for Mississauga Centre, were at the North Bay Recovery Home to talk about the importance of supporting those facing addictions challenges.

“Our government is making mental health and addictions a priority and we are investing in services that directly help individuals and families struggling with addictions,” said Elliott. “During Recovery Month, our government is working with our partners like Addictions and Mental Health Ontario to build awareness, reduce stigma and support more Ontarians in their journey toward mental wellness and recovery.”

“Together with Addictions and Mental Health Ontario, our government recognizes that through the support of the local community, treatment can be effective, and people living with addictions can recover,” said Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “This September, I encourage you and your family to attend a Recovery Month event near you, so that together we can make a difference.”

This year, Ontario made an additional investment of more than $1.3 million to support people, families and caregivers in the North Bay and Nipissing area living with mental health and addictions challenges. This will help enhance opioids and addictions treatment, crisis services and supportive housing in the region.

“This increased funding to our communities is part of our government’s additional investment of $174 million this year in addictions and mental health services,” said Fedeli. “We will continue to work with local frontline care providers and dedicated organizations like Addictions and Mental Health Ontario to ensure effective treatment and support is available to those who need it.”

“We’re thrilled the Ontario government is joining us in recognizing the importance of Recovery Month. AMHO members look forward to working with the government to make an even bigger difference for people on their recovery journey,” said Adrienne Spafford, CEO of AMHO.

Quick Facts

• Addictions and Mental Health Ontario represents approximately 200 addiction and mental health organizations.
• Ontario has committed to investing $3.8 billion over 10 years to develop and implement a comprehensive and connected mental health and addictions system