Mental Health Week (MHW) is May 4-10, 2020. Since 1951 the Canadian Mental Health Association has marked MHW in the first full week of May. That makes this the 69th year!
This year, the theme is ‘social connection’ and its importance for mental health. The campaign this year calls for us to #GetReal about how we really feel. We commonly ask one another how we are but it’s also common not to provide – or expect – a truthful answer. Many of us say we’re fine, even when we don’t mean it. ‘Fine’ keeps us at arm’s length from real social connections with others. Every time we just go through the motions, we miss a chance to connect with others in a meaningful way.
We all need social connections, especially right now. Having people to turn to during hard times is an important part of recovery and developing mental wellness. If you don’t feel like you have someone to connect with right now, but need to talk connect to a phone line.
The Kids Help Phone is open 24/7 and free to call. They also offer online chat or chat by text. You can call them at 1-800-668-6868, check them out online, or txt the word connect to 686868
Klinic Crisis Line is another helpline open 24/7. They can be reached for free at 1-888-322-3019
During Covid-19, NorWest is offering youth counselling by phone. Connect with them at 204-221-9800
Teen Clinics are also open and have counselling services available. However, during Covid-19 some locations are working a little different so it is recommended you call ahead. Find your closest clinic at teenclinic.ca
