Published on April 26, 2023
Support Mental Wellness in the Community
Every May, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) encourages Canadians to connect more deeply with their own mental health, and to consider the importance of maintaining mental health just like any other part of their wellness check in.
This year for Mental Health Week, which takes place from May 1 to 7, the CMHA is focusing on the theme “My Story”. Collectively and individually, we have multiple layers and stories that make us who we are. The CMHA wants to shine a spotlight on community-based mental health care champions, programs and communities while showcasing the importance of securing universal mental health care - what it can look like and how mental health care can be expressed and nurtured through art, photos, music, sounds, dance, movement, nature and more.
The CMHA is encouraging people to share their story by using the hashtag #MyStory & #MentalHealthWeek to shine a light on individuals’ personal journeys and how their community supports the mental health of others.
We know that each year 1 in 5 Canadians experience a mental health issue and that 5 in 5 of us have mental health. “Everyone’s mental health journeys are unique and it’s important to listen and be open to understanding people’s different experiences,” says Jen Becker, Manager of FCSS Community Supports with the City of St. Albert. “Fear and misunderstanding can lead to judgements about mental health issues, and this contributes to the stigma which prevents many people struggling with issues like anxiety and depression from seeking support,” explains Jen.
The City of St. Albert is hosting two great events during Mental Health Week as a way for residents to get out in the community to show their commitment to their own mental health, while supporting others with theirs. The events are also a way to reduce the stigma of making mental wellness part of people’s health journeys.
“Let’s work together at reducing stigma and encourage one another to access mental health supports and services,” encourages Jen.
Join Us for the Following Upcoming Events:
Chalk The Walk
From May 1 to 7, grab some chalk and get your creativity flowing by scribbling words of encouragement, positive messages and other happy thoughts on your neighbourhood sidewalk. Help spread some positivity and bring awareness to mental health in our community through a fun activity with family or friends.
Share an image of your sidewalk art on social media by tagging the City of St. Albert and using the hashtag #MentalHealthWeekStAlbert.
Annual Mental Health Awareness Walk
Residents are invited to join in on the Annual Mental Health Awareness Walk on Friday, May 5 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Lions Park. Reach out to check in with others on how they might be doing and invite them to join you for an evening 3 km stroll in the park.
The City’s appointed Poet Laureate, Lauren Seal, will be sharing a poem on the topic of mental health. There will also be performances by Nicky Lumley with JACK.org and Amplify musician Jenn Nguyen.
The event is free and pre-registration is not required.
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Last edited: April 26, 2023