The number of immigrants in Canada from Africa has been increasing since 2004 to 2014 with over 30,000 new immigrants settling in the country every year (Martel and D’Aoust, 2016).
The number of immigrants in Canada from Africa has been increasing from 2004 to 2014 with over 30,000 new immigrants settling in the country every year (Martel and D’Aoust, 2016). Today, we can certainly see the increased number of African and Caribbean immigrants across Canada and it continues to grow.
Most of these new immigrants reach out to various associations, usually country specific, for support. Mental health services and supports are the least available and accessible resources for immigrants especially those from Africa as these services and supports are either minimal or non-existent from their place of origin.
This program is designed to build capacity amongst Black Canadians and Africans in Diaspora communities in Canada through the implementation of culturally focused and relevant Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses and programs. The goal is to have facilitators/trainers available to provide the training in every community in Canada where there is an African Canadian association or agency. Initial cities will include Vancouver, British Columbia; Calgary, Alberta; Toronto, Ontario; and Montreal Quebec; all places with well-established Associations.
The conversation and education on mental health among African communities is a major challenge due to the superstitions and as a result, many who suffer from mental health fail to get the immediate and appropriate support to improve.
COVID-19 has exacerbated the issue further as many are overwhelmed with life challenges and so the issue of mental health has increased. We have seen an increased number of people suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar etc. which has resulted in many becoming abusive and violent in the community.
Incorporating an understanding of culture in the MHFA will increase the uptake of people needing support and increase the capacity of the community to address the unique barriers experienced by the lack of access and knowledge on mental health on a general and practical level.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a training course, similar to First Aid/CPR. This MHFA gives you the knowledge and the skills to assist someone in a mental health crisis. This course comes with certification from the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
MHFA is essential for your organization. Having leaders or members in your organization obtain training will:
Find a mental health provider
To participate or find out more about the GCAO MHFA Trainings, contact Mary Akuamoah-Boateng at vp@gcaocanada.org or Noah Boakye-Yiadom at noah@bynconsults.com
