Mental illnesses touch the lives of all Canadians, exerting a major effect on relationships, education,
productivity and overall quality of life. Approximately 20% of individuals will experience a mental
illness during their lifetime, and the remaining 80% will be affected by an illness in family members,
friends or colleagues. With sufficient attention and resources, much can be done to improve the
lives of people living with mental illness.
A Report on Mental Illnesses in Canada is designed to raise the profile of mental illness among
government and non-government organizations, and the industry, education, workplace, and
academic sectors. It describes major mental illnesses and outlines their incidence and prevalence,
causation, impact, stigma, and prevention and treatment. Policy makers will find the information
contained in this report valuable for shaping policies and services aimed at improving the quality of
life of people with mental illness.