$5 billion in funding is at risk for Canadians in 2027

The Canadian Mental Health Association is urging the federal government to renew funding for life-saving mental health and addictions care.  

What is the history? 

In 2017 funding agreements with provinces and territories, the federal government dedicated $5 billion over 10 years for mental health care and addiction services. That funding expires in March 2027.  

Why renew this funding? 

Mental health care is essential health care.  These are difficult times for Canadians and they rely on free, locally delivered mental health services, like counselling, crisis and recovery supports,  

These health services are a lifeline when people are under stress and in distress, and when children and youth are struggling.  

Mental health, suicide prevention, and addiction services aren’t just necessary for the well-being of people and families, they are critical for our country’s economic prosperity. When mental health and addiction care is funded, people stay healthy and at work. 

One in three Canadians with a mental health condition can’t get care because of cost. If the funding isn’t renewed, essential mental health services could be cut or closed, further eroding people’s access to care. 

When public care is missing, people’s need doesn’t just disappear. It shifts to more expensive public systems, like emergency, hospital, police, justice and shelter services, costing taxpayers even more.  

CMHA calls on the Government of Canada to renew its 10-year, $5 billion fund for mental health and addiction care in Budget 2026.