Pulling together has never been more important. Understanding how the pandemic impacts our mental health is just as critical.
Mental Health Week 2021 reminds us to get help when we need it and reach out to our families, friends, colleagues and neighbours to let them know we are here for them.
“We’ve seen continuing increases in the numbers of people reaching out to us over the past year, including those who are doing so for the first time in their lives.” says Faith Bodnar, CMHA Saskatoon Executive Director. “As well, our contact with clients has seen a 3 fold increase. We knew we had to change fast and continue looking for ways to adapt as we respond to growing needs.” adds Bodnar.
Since last March, CMHA Saskatoon has been extremely busy ensuring that anyone who needs support gets it. We’ve adapted more than ever before, pivoting immediately to virtual support, including moving our mental health education and training online. While we will return to in person programs and services as it’s safe to do so, our virtual work is now a permanent part of what we do.
Mental Health Week 2021 is more important than ever and we are pleased to showcase what we’ve been up to during these challenging times:
Riding the Wave
Along with our partner, Bridgepoint Centre for Eating Disorders, this new online workshop for high school students provides free, anytime access on a desktop computer or handheld device. Geared to building knowledge and resiliency about mental health for life, it also supports educators with a new Teacher’s Guide.
Cont;inue Project
Partnering with Toni Bryant, owner of Hometown Designs in Unity, SK all MLAs will receive the cont;inue T-shirt to wear and post a photo during Mental Health Week, signaling that we are all in this together and have a part to play in bringing mental illness out of the shadows and into the light.
Wellness Support Line
Launched in May 2020, this new phone service helps fulfill our role as a trusted source on mental health for anyone who needs us.
Reveurs de Vie
We are so pleased to be partnering with this new, exciting Saskatoon based clothing company that is passionate about mental health being at the core of their business. A portion of sales will be donated to CMHA Saskatoon to support our youth programming.
CMHA Saskatoon Wellness Hub and E-Classroom
Launching at the end of May, this new high tech, online education and training hub will feature new information, resources and live and pre-recorded workshops on a vast array of topics and issues.
For more Mental Health Week contests, news, posts and activities visit us on Facebook and Instagram