Mental Illness Awareness Week is taking place across Canada until October 10 and in Wood Buffalo several events are being planned to mark the week.
The goal of the occasion is to draw attention to the reality of living with mental illness and to help end the stigma surrounding it. It also aims to open the doors to services for people living with mental illness and their families.
“Sometimes with mental illness we don’t always talk about it, it might not be in the forefront of our conversation but mental illness is a reality,” said Emma Murray with the CMHA in Wood Buffalo.
With reduced stigma and better awareness of available services, more people will feel they can reach out for help.
Here in Wood Buffalo, the Canadian Mental Health Association is holding several events during Mental Illness Awareness week including partnering with SOS for Stand Up for Mental Health At Keyano on Wednesday.
“Friday as well, October 9, we have a gentle Hatha yoga at Higher Health which is another free event to attend but pre-registration is certainly required,” said Murray.
There is also the annual open house and bake sale with proceeds being donated to United Way Fort McMurray and an introduction to meditation class.
She said event details can be found on their Facebook Page and you can learn more online about services offered all year long including new support groups for people living with mental illness and for their families.
