Over several days, an interagency Ukrainian delegation led by Deputy Ministers of Health Ihor Kuzin, Education and Science Yevheniia Smirnova, and the Ministry for Veterans Affairs Ruslana Velychko-Tryfoniuk, alongside representatives of the Cabinet of Ministers’ Mental Health Coordination Center, Oksana Zbitnieva and Iryna Mykychak, held a series of important meetings in Canada. This working visit was part of the All-Ukrainian Mental Health Program initiated by the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska. Its goal was to exchange experiences and establish partnerships to implement best practices in mental health, veteran support, and medical rehabilitation.

Key Highlights of the Visit:

🔹 Meeting with the Minister of Veterans Affairs of Canada, Ginette Petitpas Taylor: Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in veteran rehabilitation, including their integration into civilian life, the provision of medical and psychological support, and the development of long-term employment programs.

🔹 Visit to SickKids Hospital in Toronto: The delegation explored advanced practices in pediatric care at one of the world’s leading children’s hospitals. The approach integrating medical, educational, and psychological services was highly praised for creating a holistic support ecosystem for children and their families.

🔹 Discussions at CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health): The delegation reviewed effective models of rehabilitation, social reintegration of patients, and mental health service management. Negotiations were initiated to adapt these practices to the Ukrainian context.

🔹 Working Sessions with Canadian Senators: The Ukrainian delegation met with members of the Canadian Senate to discuss advancing collaboration in psychosocial support, integrating mental health into education, and veteran policy. A particularly emotional moment was the senators’ unanimous standing ovation in support of Ukraine.

🔹 Cooperation with the Mental Health Commission of Canada: The delegation had an in-depth discussion with the Commission’s President, Michel Rodrigue, focusing on government coordination mechanisms and successful practices in mental health support.

🔹 Meetings with the Government of Ontario: Effective solutions in mental health services were reviewed, including community-based service integration, support for children and adolescents, and addiction treatment strategies.

Gratitude and Outcomes

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Canadian partners, government officials, senators, and experts for their openness, support, and meaningful discussions. The shared efforts, knowledge, and innovations provide a strong foundation for building a modern system of mental health care and veteran support in Ukraine.