Hon. Carolyn Bertram, Minister of Health and Wellness, has proclaimed February as Psychology Month. This proclamation recognizes the work of the many dedicated staff and volunteers who work in the field of psychology.
“Psychology is an important discipline, it is the study of how people think, act, and react at an individual, group, organizational and community level,” said Minister Bertram. “The Psychological Association of Prince Edward Island works to promote the practice of psychology within our province. They encourage interaction among those involved in all aspects of psychological services and assist in establishing professional standards for psychologists on Prince Edward Island.”
Psychology is a multi-faceted discipline. For example, it attempts to help children and adolescents recognize, understand and manage the stresses in their lives; to assist professionals with the pressures of day-to-day responsibilities in the workplace; to help parents and caregivers become more aware of children’s ongoing needs to enhance their resilience and build healthy relationships; to help newcomers to Prince Edward Island build bridges to minimize barriers and maximize access to support; and ultimately to help all Islanders better deal with difficult situations and understand themselves and others better.
One in five Canadians will experience a mental disorder in their lifetimes. Research has shown that for the most common mental disorders in Canada, anxiety and depression, psychological therapies are treatments of choice.
The goal of Psychology Month is to generate grassroots activities that will raise Islanders’ awareness of the role psychology plays in their lives and in their communities. It encourages all members of the psychology profession to connect with their communities and show the value and benefits of their work. Ultimately, the Psychological Association of Prince Edward Island (PAPEI) hopes to increase support for research, education and training, and access to psychological services of all types.
“In the fall sitting of the Legislature, our Government was pleased to pass the new Psychologists Act,” said Minister Bertram. “This Act outlined the purpose and powers of PAPEI and the PEI Psychologists Registration Board; both organizations play important roles in the well-being of Islanders. The Act also introduces new registration categories, provides specific requirements for psychologist applicants and outlines a new process to ensure procedural fairness and efficiency.”
During the month of February, PAPEI has several events planned to increase awareness of psychology as a discipline and to inform islanders of the services that are provided by PAPEI.