TORONTO, February 11, 2013 – York University launches York U Let’s Talk Mental Health in conjunction with Bell Let’s Talk Day, Feb. 12, as part of the University’s commitment to creating a mentally healthy campus.

“With Health Canada statistics that one in five Canadians will experience a form of mental illness at some point in their lives, mental health is an increasing concern for all universities, as a place of learning and work. York U Let's Talk Mental Health will provide an opportunity for our community to share their thoughts on what a mentally healthy campus would look like,” says York University Professor Lesley Beagrie, associate dean, professional & global program, Faculty of Health.

The day will include a community dialogue, featuring a panel of participants representing students, faculty and staff to help increase awareness, reduce stigma and foster dialogue on what a mentally healthy campus would look like. There will also be an information fair featuring on-campus resource groups and student clubs to raise awareness of mental health resources on campus. York U is currently developing a comprehensive mental health strategy and feedback from the community dialogue and information fair will help inform that strategy.

A video message from Olympian Clara Hughes – Canadian cyclist and speed skater – exclusively for the York community will also be aired during the event.

 WHAT: Let’s Talk Mental Health Day, with a special message from Olympian Clara Hughes, cyclist and speed skater, and a panel discussion by student,
faculty and staff representatives on building a mentally healthy campus
WHERE: York University, Keele Campus (view map for building locations)
WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013, 10:00am-3:00pm:
Mental Health Fair: 10:00 am-3:00 pm, Vari Hall and CIBC lobbY Community Dialogue: 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, Tribute Community Hall,
Accolade East (live webcast at yorku.ca/mentalhealth)

York University is helping to shape the global thinkers and thinking that will define tomorrow. York U’s unwavering commitment to excellence reflects a rich diversity of perspectives and a strong sense of social responsibility that sets us apart. A York U degree empowers graduates to thrive in the world and achieve their life goals through a rigorous academic foundation balanced by real-world experiential education. As a globally recognized research centre, York U is fully engaged in the critical discussions that lead to innovative solutions to the most pressing local and global social challenges. York U’s 11 faculties and 28 research centres are thinking bigger, broader and more globally, partnering with 288 leading universities worldwide. York U's community is strong − 55,000 students, 7,000 faculty and staff, and more than 250,000 alumni.

Media Contact: Gloria Suhasini, York University Media Relations, 416 736 2100 ext. 22094, suhasini@yorku.ca