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Ottawa — The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, attended the opening of a roundtable on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) this evening to encourage mental health experts and other participants in their work to reduce and eliminate the social stigma associated with mental illness.

The two hours of roundtable discussions were organized by the Mood Disorders Society of Canada and its partners.

"The mental health and well-being of Veterans and their families is a priority for our government," said Minister Blaney. "I firmly hope that the frank discussions from this roundtable will go a long way in raising awareness about PTSD and ending the social stigma that still deters some of our nation's heroes from seeking the help that is available."

The roundtable discussions were held at the Canadian War Museum to coincide with its exhibit entitled War and Medicine. Approximately 75 participants, including experts in mental health, officials from the Canadian Forces and a number of members of Parliament and senators, were invited to discuss a range of issues related to PTSD. Topics included the need to ensure Canada has the capacity to deal effectively with Veterans, soldiers and their families struggling with PTSD. Other discussions centred on eliminating the societal stigma associated with PTSD and enhancing research on the disorder.

"Our government has significantly improved mental health services for our Veterans, Canadian Forces members and their families through specialized clinics, a peer support network and registered mental health providers in communities across Canada," said Minister Blaney. "I am confident that these discussions will provide us with important feedback on how to better serve our Veterans and their families."

To learn more about Veterans Affairs Canada's programs and services, visit veterans.gc.ca.

http://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/department/press/viewrelease/1234