All medical information, statistics, and research cited on this website are sourced from reputable organizations and peer-reviewed research.
We believe in providing accurate, evidence-based information. All medical claims, statistics, and treatment information on this website are sourced from reputable organizations, government data, and peer-reviewed research.
While we advocate strongly for improved mental health care and express our ethical views on end-of-life policy, we ground our arguments in factual, verifiable information.
13,241 MAID Deaths in 2022
Source: Health Canada - Fourth Annual Report on Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada 2022
canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/medical-assistance-dying/annual-report-2022.htmlNote: This represents a 31.2% increase from 2021 (10,064 deaths).
4.1% of All Deaths in Canada (2022)
Source: Health Canada - Fourth Annual Report on Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada 2022
canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/medical-assistance-dying/annual-report-2022.htmlNote: This percentage makes Canada's MAID rate among the highest in the world.
MAID Expansion to Mental Illness (Postponed)
Source: Government of Canada - News Release, February 2023
The federal government postponed MAID eligibility for mental illness as the sole underlying condition until March 2024, and has since extended this delay. The ongoing debate and postponements reflect concerns about the readiness of the healthcare system.
Government of Canada News Release80-90% of People Respond to Depression Treatment
Source: Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
cmha.ca - Fast Facts About Mental IllnessAdditional support: American Psychiatric Association states that between 80% and 90% of people with depression eventually respond well to treatment, and almost all patients gain some relief from their symptoms.
American Psychiatric Association - What is Depression?1 in 5 Canadians Experience Mental Illness
Source: Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
cmha.ca - Fast Facts About Mental IllnessBy age 40, about 50% of Canadians will have or have had a mental illness.
Depression is a Medical Condition
Source: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
nimh.nih.gov - DepressionDepression is a common but serious mood disorder that causes severe symptoms affecting how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. It is recognized as a treatable medical condition.
Neurotransmitter Imbalances in Depression
Source: Harvard Health Publishing - Harvard Medical School
Harvard Health - What Causes Depression?Research indicates that depression involves changes in neurotransmitter levels (serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine) and brain structure. These changes can be addressed through various treatments.
Neuroplasticity: The Brain Can Heal
Source: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
CAMH - Depression InformationThe brain has the ability to form new neural connections throughout life (neuroplasticity). This means that with proper treatment, the brain can heal and recover from depression.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Effectiveness
Source: American Psychological Association
APA - Cognitive Behavioral TherapyCBT has been demonstrated through research to be effective for treating depression, anxiety, and many other mental health conditions.
Exercise as Treatment for Depression
Source: Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic - Depression and ExerciseResearch shows that exercise can help prevent and improve symptoms of depression. In some studies, exercise has been shown to be as effective as medication for treating mild to moderate depression.
Social Support and Connection
Source: Mental Health Commission of Canada
Mental Health Commission of CanadaStrong social connections and support systems are protective factors against depression and aid in recovery.
Canada Has Among Highest Assisted Dying Rates Globally
Source: Multiple peer-reviewed studies and government data
Academic research comparing assisted dying programs across jurisdictions (Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Oregon, etc.) shows Canada's MAID rate at 4.1% of all deaths is among the highest reported rates globally.
References: Downar J, Fowler RA, Halko R, et al. "Early experience with medical assistance in dying in Ontario, Canada." CMAJ 2020;192(8):E173-E181.
While we cite factual, evidence-based sources for medical and statistical information, we also express strong advocacy positions based on ethical, philosophical, and policy beliefs.
Our advocacy positions include:
These positions reflect our ethical and philosophical beliefs about the value of life and the importance of comprehensive mental health care. They are advocacy positions, not medical directives.
National organization providing mental health information and support.
cmha.caCanada's largest mental health teaching hospital.
camh.caFederal organization promoting mental health awareness.
mentalhealthcommission.caWe are committed to keeping our sources and citations current and accurate. If you notice outdated information or broken links, please contact us.
Last Updated: March 2026