“Let’s Talk” Mental Health Awareness Day

Mental Health is as integral to our well being as our Physical Health. Yet too often we treat Mental Health as something about which we can’t talk openly. Thanks to people like Olympian Clara Hughes (@clarahughes_) and many others, Canadians are starting to fight against the mystery and the stigma around Mental Health. Today Canadians all across the nation are talking about Mental Health. Get in on the conversation.

For more info:

Bell Let’s Talk

Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868)

Canadian Mental Health Association

World Mental Health Day

Lord Tweedsmuir students and staff are wearing purple today to show their support for World Mental Health Day. The day was established with the goal of raising awareness about Mental Health issues, to promote Mental Health initiatives, and to fight against the stigma of Mental Health problems. Find out more:

World Health Organization

World Federation for Mental Health

Canadian Mental Health Association

Myths About Metal Illness
Click the image to see the rest of the Myths about Mental Illness (Source: CMHA)

Rick Rypien

source: National Post

Rick Rypien was born on this day in 1984.  Rypien was a hockey player and a fan favourite during his time with the Vancouver Canucks.Sadly, he took his own life in 2011.  Rypien suffered from the devastating effects of depression and other mental health issues.

Former team-mates, friends and family have honoured the memory of Rick Rypien in many ways, not least through the connection to Mindcheck.ca.  Go there to learn more about Rick Rypien and about Mental Health.

Youth and Child Mental Health Day

Over a million Canadian children and youth are affected by mental health issues, according to the Mental Health Commission of Canada. Yet less than 20% will  receive treatment or appropriate care.  In recent years in Canada we have taken strides towards removing the stigma of admitting to mental health issues. However, we still have so far to go.

Child & Youth Mental Health Day, May 7th
source: FamilySmart

Learn more: