Supporting a Mentally Healthy Kelowna
Kelowna, March 22, 2016 – Okanagan Kids Care has committed $7,970 towards #GETLOUD Toolkits for every middle and high school in School District 23, with a goal to see at least 5000 students pledge to #GETLOUD for mental health. [Read more…]
This weekend, the city of Swift Current will welcome home hockey star and former NHLer Sheldon Kennedy while also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Western Hockey League.
Earlier this week, Swift Current Mayor Jerrod Schafer issued a public apology to Kennedy and other junior hockey players who had been sexually assaulted by their coach in the 1980s.
Events in Swift Current highlight the need for communities — including Kelowna — to keep children safe and to make the appropriate services accessible after trauma has occurred.
But in order for more people to get help, we have to first create an environment where asking for help is OK. One of the most important ways we can do this is by eliminating the culture of shame and blame that we have built around trauma and mental health issues. Brené Brown, a brilliant scholar, author and public speaker, suggests “empathy is the antidote to shame.” I wholeheartedly agree.
Click here to read the rest of our opinion piece in the Kelowna Daily Courier.
Jasmin Yee has written a great article at Healthy Minds Canada called “I Wish I Had Learned Mental Health Literacy Earlier.” We recommend you give it a quick read. The article raises some interesting points, such as the importance of mental health literacy in being able to advocate for oneself, as well as being able to put words to our thoughts and feelings.
So, how can we foster mental health literacy in our children? We’ve compiled a few links to get you started.
For families and caregivers of children, youth, or young adults with mental health issues, the links below are valuable but don’t forget about our Family Navigation services. CMHA Kelowna’s Family Navigator can help you access the resources you need in our community and also hosts events and support groups.
Plus, an article for the parents/caregivers: Emotional Agility
(Image for this blog from Homeless Hub. Please note that while we think the articles linked above contain some good information and tips, CMHA Kelowna does not necessarily endorse those websites or any products they may sell.)