On Wednesday (Jan. 30), millions of Canadians took to social media encouraging others to talk about mental health.
That same day, a Prince George politician decided to take an extra step forward on the issue by suggesting a day each year where we recognize those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Cariboo-Prince George MP Todd Doherty announced in Ottawa a new Private Members Bill to seek June 27 as National PTSD Awareness Day.
“The brave men and women who serve our country and our citizens often endure life-altering events that leave them with deep emotional and psychological scars,” said Doherty in a news release. “They serve with courage and distinction, but their service often means they are left to deal with haunting images, sounds and smells for a lifetime.”
The Federal Conservative is also responsible for the implementation of Bill C-211, which provides a federally-regulated framework to address challenges in recognizing PTSD symptoms and timely treatment.
The bill was first tabled in 2016, and Doherty was very relieved to see it receive its final stamp of approval in June last year.
“Mental illness should not be a partisan issue. I sincerely hope that all parliamentarians vote to unanimously to pass this Bill.”
The act is known in the House of Commons as Bill C-425.
