By: Arnold Viersen, MP, Peace River – Westlock
This week, my colleague Conservative MP Andrew Lawton launched the #IGotBetter campaign,
encouraging Canadians to share stories of hope, survival, and recovery from mental illness. This
campaign sends a crucial message: assisted death is not the answer to mental health struggles.
Andrew courageously shared his own story of battling depression and nearly losing his life to suicide in 2010. His experience is a powerful reminder that the desire to end one’s life, simply because of mental illness, does not have to be permanent. Recovery is possible—but only if we refuse to give up on those who are suffering. Learn more about this campaign at IGotBetter.ca.
This issue is especially important here in Alberta. According to Alberta Health Services, suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10 to 44 in our province. One in five Albertans experience mental illness each year, yet many feel isolated and without hope.
Andrew and I also support the Right to Recover Act, Bill C-218, introduced by Conservative MP
Tamara Jansen. This bill would stop the planned expansion of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) regime to individuals suffering solely from mental illness. Protecting vulnerable Canadians from this expansion is vital.
If laws like this had existed 15 years ago, Andrew says he might not be here today. Bill C-218 is
essential for keeping hope alive for those struggling with mental health.
Healing and flourishing are possible—but only if we choose to support those in need, rather than give up on them. Passing Bill C-218 will help protect and support all Canadians, including Albertans, who are fighting mental illness.
We owe it to our loved ones to prioritize recovery, hope, and life.
Arnold Viersen, MP
Peace River-Westlock
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