Though psychological trauma, which can eventually lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, became a widely recognized problem after the Vietnam War, the promotion of mental-health counseling for Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans has accelerated a trickle-down effect to civilians and first responders.

WSJ: First Responders Seek Out Counseling as Attitudes Shift

The amendment would give mental illness equal status with physical illness in the government's promotion of a comprehensive health service.

BBC: Government suffers defeat over NHS Bill

The projects, led by Grand Challenges Canada, will tackle issues that can lead to mental illness, such as alcohol and substance abuse, as well as delivering solutions like counselling and health promotion.

BBC: Mental health: Global effort sought