“Navigating Mental Health, Together” Community Event: Wrap-Up & Resources Shared

We had a lovely time with parents and youth at last week’s community supper and evening event, “Navigating Mental Health, Together.” A thank you to all who attended!

The event began with the kids going through some of our resources and creating their very own mental health kits (See resources below). This was followed by a family supper and presentations by Gillian Szollos and Ray Folkins. Parents then took part in a parent workshop, while the kids had the opportunity to create their very own masks in a youth workshop led by Lara Guenette.

A thank you to our presenter Gillian Szollos for sharing with us her families’ inspiring story. During the parent workshop, she also shared information on recognizing signs of distress, how to communicate with your child, and exploring ways to encourage better mental health.

“My greatest challenges. I had to learn to let go. I had to stop being a manager and take on the role of consultant. To be the sun, to be warm and present 24 hrs a day, and allow her orbit me instead of desperately trying to follow er through her darkness. I had to listen, not just hear, but listen! I had to be stable and resist the urge to blame her or myself. [ … ] And to be patient. And to allow her to be separate and independent of me before I really wanted her to be. I had to relax the reins. I had to stop blaming, including blaming myself.” – Gillian Szollos.

A thank you to Ray Folkins, MBA, MM, CPA, CMC, Founder & CEO, of NoStigmas, who spoke to us about the organization, its many programs and supports for individuals and families. Make sure to visit NoStigmas.org for more information and it’s long-list of supports and resources, including: peer-to-peer mental health support networks across Canada, community connector programs of self-care, mental wellness and anti-suicide support resources, as well as their free online Ally Training Program for self-care, peer-to-peer support and mental health advocacy and more.

A thank you to Lara Guenette for leading the youth workshop. The kids built some beautifully-creative masks that allowed them to see, touch and express those unseen wounds and/or struggles.

A thank you as well to the Wakefield Community Centre (WAY), and to Vanessa, for helping us organize such a successful event for parents and youth within the community. And to Jess and Lindsey from the Wakefield Community Centre and Kate Douglas for the catering.

Resource Shared & Online/Community Supports and Information: