The ultimate cost of being unable to get help with a mental health issue is suicide – a preventable outcome that can be devastating to friends, family and an entire community.

Suicide is a serious and prevalent issue in Canada: it is the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 10 to 24. It is an epidemic, yet people still feel uncomfortable talking about it.

Addiction – whether to drugs, alcohol, gambling – is another serious problem in Canada. Not only is addiction a sign or a symptom of mental health problems, it can also trigger mental health issues. Someone struggling with both an addiction and a mental health problem like depression or anxiety people is said to have a ‘dual diagnosis’, which requires specific help.

Dealing with these issues at a young age can be even more difficult. You are still transitioning into adulthood, starting your first job, leaving home, and you may not know what resources are out there to help with mental health issues.

In the fifth episode of our mental health series, we take a look at why it is important to talk about suicide and addiction and how we can help prevent further stigmatization for such a serious problem in Canada.

Help us spread the word by sharing our videos on social media, tweeting and emailing politicians and policy makers and letting other Canadians know that together, we can make a change when it comes to mental health.

If we make enough noise, they have to listen.

Help us make mental health support mandatory! #MakeItMandatory.