Calgary, AB – Yesterday’s events at the National War Memorial and House of Commons were deeply disturbing to all Canadians and on behalf of the Mental Health Commission of Canada, I would like to add our voices to those expressions of condolence to the family and friends of Corporal Nathan Cirillo.
We also salute the first responders from the RCMP, Members of the House of Commons and Senate Security Staffs, Ottawa Police Service, Ottawa Emergency Services and the Canadian Armed Forces who rallied to protect their fellow citizens and restore calm to the nation’s capital.
It is in times such as these that we must support each other and remember that the mental health impact of these events will be different for each and every one of us. It will be very important in the coming days to support our friends and co-workers as we all come to terms with these tragic events.
There are numerous support services to assist people deal with the fall out of these events and as a mental health professional, I know the importance of reaching out and working together. The Mental Health Commission is ready to assist in this effort through our Mental Health First Aid initiative. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you require any assistance.
Yesterday’s events will make a difference in our daily lives, but we can minimize the impact as long as we look after ourselves starting with our mental health.
Louise Bradley
President and CEO
Mental Health Commission of Canada
