15 29TH ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE MESSAGE FROM THE CHARLOTTETOWN CHIEF OF POLICE 2019 marks the twenty-ninth anniversary for the PEl Police Association. Part of the work of the Association involves the production an annual crime prevention/awareness guide. Each year the guide provides educational materials and information which helps raise awareness and provide discussion points on important issues facing our communities. This year the guide focuses on the issue of Mental Health Awareness. Mental health impacts all of us, from our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and act. How we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood. As an individual you may not experience mental illness first-hand, but it is likely you know someone who has or will. Statistically I in 5 Canadians will experience a mental illness at some point in their life, most will be cautious about talking to a co-worker, friend or family member about the issue, let alone seek treatment. For anyone facing mental illness, stigma is one of the biggest hurdles to overcome. The stigma associated to mental illness is the leading reason why a significant number of people do not seek help. The information provided in this guide; coupled with your willingness to talk about the issue with a friend, family member, or co-worker can help in addressing these issues. Programs such as "Healthy Me" and "Picture This" are ways in which our officers deliver positive messaging to youth. The production of these guides not only raise awareness on important issues, but also assist the Police Association in the efforts to fund and support very worthwhile projects within our Island communities. On behalf of the members and staff of the Charlottetown Police Services, I would like to congratulate the PEl Police Association for the production of this year's community guide, and wish the Association every success in the future. Yours truly, A. Paul Smith, O.O.M. Chief of Police
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM0NTk1OA==