Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Saskatoon Branch and TeensTalk YXE are excited to announce a new partnership aimed at furthering mental health resources for teens in Saskatoon.
TeensTalk YXE was founded in October 2022 by Taryn and Pam Hutchings – a mother and daughter duo from Warman, SK. In August of 2022, Taryn suffered an extreme mental health crisis causing her to be admitted 12 times to the in-patient psychiatric unit, totalling more than 90 days in the hospital.
During this crisis, Taryn and Pam realized there is a gap in youth services in Saskatoon. Taryn longed for supports where she could connect with other youth struggling with their mental health. Together, they decided to create their own supportive community and TeensTalk YXE was born.
According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, 70% of people living with a mental illness see their symptoms begin before age 18. It is estimated that mental illness affects 1.2 million children and youth in Canada.
Statistics Canada (2022) reports more than half (52%) of youth aged 12 to 17 viewed their mental health differently than their parents did, and nearly two-thirds rated it less positively than their parents.
Through the partnership, TeensTalk YXE will have access to the resources and expertise of a well-established mental health organization, helping them to expand their reach and impact. CMHA Saskatoon has begun to roll out youth mental health services and TeensTalk YXE is a great fit with our strategic initiatives.
By joining forces, our goal is to raise awareness about mental health issues and encourage more young people to seek the help and support they need.