Mental Health Week: Compassion to Action

Kelowna, BC ~ May 6, 2024 – The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is calling on Canadians to take action around their compassion. The call comes as the organization launches their annual Mental Health Week, and a newly released study shows that the majority of Canadians see themselves as compassionate, but less than half take action to help others.

The survey conducted by the CMHA National Office and led by Maru Public Opinion found that almost all (92%) who participated said they think of themselves as compassionate and recognize the challenges that people are facing.

CEO of CMHA Kelowna, Mike Gawliuk, says that isn’t surprising because feeling compassion is part of what makes us human. “We are built to respond to people who are in need. Compassion is the emotional response to the struggles of others combined with a real, authentic desire to help lessen their suffering and respond with care.”

The survey also showed that despite understanding that some people may need help, only 4-in-10 (38%) acted on their compassion. One of the reasons for the inaction - 60% of Canadians said they felt overwhelmed and didn’t know where to start.

“Right now, people are facing worrying levels of stress, anxiety, and loneliness heightened by social inequality, an affordability crisis, political divisiveness, and ongoing climate concerns,” says Gawliuk. “All of it is having a negative impact on our collective mental health.”The good news, says Gawliuk, is that compassion can be learned and practiced. Giving compassion, receiving compassion, and allowing ourselves to experience self-compassion are all very beneficial to our mental health and Mental Health Week is a good time to start.”

CMHA’s 73rd annual Mental Health week runs May 6 – 12. This year’s theme "Healing through Compassion," delves into the profound connection that compassion fosters among individuals and communities.

Gawliuk says through acts of kindness and understanding, individuals can build connections that go beyond differences and help everyone feel better together. “In this context, a call to be kind is more relevant than ever, especially given the many mental health benefits associated with compassion.”

For further insights or to join the conversation on compassion, visit www.mentalhealthweek.ca.