CK Mayor Darrin Canniff raising a flag to mark Mental Health Week in Chatham-Kent, May 4, 2022. (Photo courtesy of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent)

Ending the stigma of mental health issues and providing support to those with mental illness are the focus of Mental Health Week in Chatham-Kent.

The 11th annual Mental Health Week was marked with a flag-raising and barbeque at the Civic Centre Wednesday morning. Mayor Darrin Canniff, along with councillors Karen Kirkwood-Whyte and Amy Finn, were in attendance at the event organized by the Mental Health Network of Chatham-Kent.

Canniff praised the efforts of the Mental Health Network, which continues to assist those whose lives are affected by mental illness.

He noted that community support is a key factor in encouraging people to come forward and seek support in the same way people do regarding their physical health needs.

The Mental Health Network offers several community based services for those with mental health illness, such as peer support, educational groups, and recreational activities.