Canadian Mental Health Association

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The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) was founded on January 26, 1918 by Dr. Clarence M. Hincks and Clifford W. Beers. Originally named the Canadian National Committee for Mental Hygiene, it is one of the oldest voluntary health organizations still operating in Canada.

Each year, CMHA divisions and branches across Canada provide service to more than 100,000 Canadians through the combined efforts of more than 10,000 volunteers and staff in locally run organizations in more than 135 communities.

CMHA is uniquely positioned in Canada as a charity that brings together community-based experience and expertise in the prevention of mental illness as well as community supports for the mental well-being of all Canadians. It is unique not only in its mental health promotion approach but also in its ability to speak to issues spanning the broad range of mental disorders and the full spectrum of those affected from those at risk, to those newly diagnosed, to those who have been living with a psychiatric disability for many years, as well as family, friends and community gatekeepers.