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Mental Health

If you are in crisis please reach out for help – view many resources and tools.

“Courage doesn’t always roar.  Sometimes courage is the quiet voice
at the end of the day saying I will try again tomorrow.”
~ Mary Ann Radmacher ~

Quite often courage  is related to some major act of bravery.  I find the quiet displays of courage to be some of the most profound and incredible acts of bravery there is.

What makes you brave?

Maybe today, it’s getting up and taking a shower.

Or it could be, reaching out and asking for help.

You could be someone, watching somewhat helplessly as a loved one struggles with depression and anxiety.  You choose to show them your unconditional love, acceptance and support.

No matter what stage of the journey you are on, it’s important to recognize each brave step – large or small.

The Heart of the Matter

  • 1 in 5 Canadians will have a diagnosed mental illness over a lifetime – that is over 6 million Canadians.
  • 1 in 5 children are dealing with a mental health problem
  • 1 in 9 individuals have a serious anxiety disorder
  • 1 in 10 have depression or bipolar disorder
  • On average, one Albertan dies by suicide every day
  • On average, 10 Canadians die by suicide every day
  • In Canada, suicide is the second cause of death in youth aged 15 – 24 years old.

The International Association for Suicide Prevention states there are over one million suicides worldwide every year, equaling one death by suicide every 40 seconds.  In Canada, suicide is the ninth leading cause of death.

Within all these statistics is HOPE.  As a society we MUST work towards reducing the stigma, and let people with mental illness know

You are not alone.  You are Loved. You Belong.

I hope you will find inspiration from the brave stories of individuals who are choosing to step through their mental illness with courage, honesty and support. Click HERE for stories and inspiration to choose life.