Lieutenant Governor Circle and Dr. Rothbaum

NEWS RELEASE October 5, 2011

Lieutenant Governor launches mental health and addiction initiative

Edmonton.... The Lieutenant Governor’s Circle on Mental Health and Addiction was introduced today at a gathering of representatives from provincial mental health organizations, individuals with lived experience and Alberta business and community leaders.

The Lieutenant Governor’s Circle on Mental Health and Addiction will consist of experts in the field, community leaders and those with lived experience. The Circle will work to:

• Reduce stigma related to mental illness and addiction;
• Further public knowledge of the topic;
• Highlight and encourage positive steps being taken to improve the lives of Albertans of all ages who are affected by all types of mental illness; and
• Encourage collaboration among various Alberta organizations and initiatives that deal with mental health and addiction.

His Honour, Col, (Ret’d) the Honourable Donald S. Ethell will serve as founding Patron of the Circle. “Through my own experiences with post traumatic stress disorder I’ve seen the stigma and misunderstanding that can surround the issue,” says Lieutenant Governor Ethell. “I’ve also come to appreciate all those across our province who are working to deliver valued mental health programs and to encourage recovery, hope and understanding. This Circle is intended to shine a light on the progress we’re making and encourage even greater success in the future.

The first public presentation of the Lieutenant Governor’s Circle on Mental Health and Addiction took place on November 17, 2011.  The Mental Health Foundation was pleased to sponsor the talk by Dr. Barbara Rothbaum, an international leading expert on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Her current work focuses on treating chronic PTSD in veterans using virtual reality exposure therapy.

For more information about the Lieutenant Governor’s Circle on Mental Health and Addiction, including details of the award program, visit www.mhpa.ab.ca/LGCircle