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"The brain is the crown jewel of the human body. This three-pound organ is the seat of intelligence, interpreter of the senses, initiator of body movement, and controller of behavior. Lying in its bony shell and washed by protective fluid, the brain is the source of all the qualities that define our humanity."
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

When something goes wrong in the brain, our ‘control centre’, it can affect every aspect of life. Today, more than 10 million Canadians are living with a brain condition (neurological or psychiatric). Best estimates suggest that approximately 5.5 million have a neurological condition, and between 5 and 6 million will experience a mental health disorder at some time in their life.

Facts: 

• Neurological conditions are permanent – there are some treatments, but no cures;
• Many people with a neurological condition will also experience related mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, and dementia;
• Neurological conditions encompass over 1000 unique diseases, disorders, injuries affecting every age and stage:
  • Degenerative (e.g. ALS, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease)
  • Episodic (e.g. epilepsy, multiple sclerosis)
  • Developmental (e.g. cerebral palsy, spina bifida, autism, fetal alcohol syndrome, Rett syndrome)
  • Genetic (e.g. Huntington’s disease, muscular dystrophy)
  • Sudden Onset (e.g. brain or spinal cord injury, stroke)
  • Child Onset (e.g. Tourette syndrome, ADHD)

The NHCC aims to improve public awareness and understanding of brain conditions, and related issues, so that individuals and families living with these disorders will experience a greater quality of life. Our objective is to dispel stigma and sensitize the public and policy makers to better understand and plan for the serious implications facing so many millions of Canadians.