Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)

About CMHA

Founded in 1918, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is the most established, most extensive community mental health organization in Canada. Through a presence in more than 330 communities across every province and one territory, CMHA provides advocacy, programs and resources that help to prevent mental health problems and illnesses, support recovery and resilience, and enable all Canadians to flourish and thrive. 

With one national office, 11 divisions in all provinces and one territory, and 75 community-based branches/regions, we provide services and supports to over 1.3 million Canadians through the combined efforts of more than 5,000 staff and 11,000 volunteers. 

Visit CMHA National‘s website for more information.

To learn more about the history of CMHA, please visit our virtual timeline.

Our Vision, Mission and Values

Our Vision

Mentally healthy people in a healthy society.

Our Mission

As the nationwide leader and champion for mental health, CMHA facilitates access to the resources people require to maintain and improve mental health and community integration, build resilience, and support recovery from mental illness. 

Our Key Values and Principles 

• Embracing the voice of people with mental health issues 
• Promoting inclusion 
• Working collaboratively 
• Influencing the social determinants of health (e.g. housing, justice) 
• Focusing on the mental health needs of all age groups 
• Using evidence to inform our work 
• Being transparent and accountable