GUELPH – Each May, people across Canada rally around the Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) Mental Health Week.
Inaugurated by CMHA in 1951, May 1 to 7 marks the 72nd annual Mental Health Week in Canada. The social change campaign aims to educate the public and shift beliefs and perceptions about mental health.
It helps promote behaviours and attitudes that foster well-being, support good mental health and create a culture of understanding, and acceptance.
“This year, we’re so thankful to our community members for stepping up and sharing their own stories,” stated Helen Fishburn, CEO of CMHA Waterloo Wellington.
One of those inspiring stories comes from Noah Irvine, whose unique experience has led him to be an advocate for others.
Fishburn went on to explain that Noah lost his mother, Lesley, at five to suicide, and his father, Kent, died from a prescription drug overdose when Noah was 15.
Noah also has PTSD and a learning disability.
“When he was in Grade 11, Noah launched a national campaign to encourage all levels of government to work together to help support peoples’ mental health,” Fishburn explained.
“Stories like Noah’s are so important as we continue the important work of breaking down stigmas surrounding mental illness.
“By learning from others, we can be inspired to look after ourselves and seek help if we need it.”
The 2023 Mental Health Week campaign theme – “My Story” – encourages everyone to speak about their lived experiences and share their own mental health journeys.
One in five Canadians experience a mental illness or mental health issue, but everyone has mental health and needs to take care of it.
“Stories connect us and remind us we’re not alone,” officials say.
“Our brains are wired for story,” Fishburn said, and sharing stories allows people to learn more about themselves and others.
Through sharing our stories, we can come together to share one key message: universal mental health care is a vital part of our health care system, and we need it now, the release states.
Over 3,151 people are waiting for ongoing mental health support in Waterloo Wellington.
“We all need care to thrive but as things are, only some of us will get it,” officials say.
Mounting mental health needs are straining systems and for two out of three people, care isn’t available due to cost, wait times, location, or lack of equitable access.
The Shoppers Drug Mart Run for Women is on May 13 at Conestoga College, Doon campus. Learn more at runforwomen.ca.
That’s one way to support Mental Health Week.The CMHA is also hosting a Mental Health Week 2023: Caregiver Well-being Event via Zoom on May 3 from 6:30 to 8pm.
Join the Family Council of CMHA Waterloo Wellington and hear from Dr. Serena Jenkins of the Palix Foundation. Learn about the science of resilience and how the Resilience Scale can be used as a tool to improve outcomes.
For more information or to register, visit cmhaww.ca.
