In recent years, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) York Region South Simcoe has undergone significant growth, extending its reach and enhancing its services to meet the diverse mental health needs of the community.
At the forefront of this expansion is the vision of "mental health for all," as emphasized by Rebecca Shields, CEO of CMHA York Region South Simcoe. Shields notes, "We’ve worked to expand our services to reach youth, adults, and family caregivers across our community, providing the resources individuals require to maintain and improve mental health, build resilience, and recover from mental illness and addiction."
This growth includes the introduction of evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as part of the free Ontario Structured Psychotherapy program, enhanced mental health services for newcomers and refugees, expanded youth mental health services through a mobile clinic and classroom-based services, and increased access to supportive housing and recovery programs.
Impactful programs and personal triumphs
CMHA offers over 30 free programs that significantly impact youth (ages 12+), adults, and family caregivers. One notable program, Community Connections, is a recovery-oriented drop-in hub that hosts mental health workshops, socialization opportunities, and fun activities.
"I feel a new sense of safety, comfort, and belonging in this group, something I haven’t experienced before," shared one participant, highlighting the transformative impact of the program.
The College of Health and Well-Being, a Recovery College, empowers individuals to manage their recovery journey effectively. Participants learn to handle life's moments with gratitude, compassion, and optimism. The Gender Affirming Health Clinic provides inclusive and confidential care for trans and gender-diverse individuals, further underscoring CMHA's commitment to serving all community members.
The Community Connections program exemplifies CMHA's commitment to recovery and community integration. Offering social, recreational, and psychoeducational groups, the program helps participants build resilience and gain new perspectives. Melissa Cortese, an Occupational Therapist at CMHA, shared, "It’s truly inspiring to watch members form meaningful relationships, offer each other support and validation, and cultivate a sense of community."
Despite the comprehensive services offered, misconceptions about mental health support persist. Many believe that such services are only for those with severe conditions or worry about the costs and time commitments. CMHA actively works to dispel these myths, ensuring services are accessible, free, and tailored to meet diverse needs.
Looking forward, CMHA is excited about the development of York Region's first Mental Health Community Care Hub. Shields adds, "This major project will provide free, evidence-based mental health care 24/7 to individuals and families, ensuring they receive the right care at the right time in the right place." This project represents a significant stride toward increasing access to mental health services.
‘Stand Up for Mental Health’ laughter and awareness collide
The "Stand Up for Mental Health" event, a creative initiative by CMHA York Region South Simcoe, showcases the therapeutic power of laughter while raising awareness for mental health issues. This collaboration with Yuk Yuk's Comedy Clubs will launch the "Yuk Yuk's York on Tour," a series of comedy shows designed to travel across the community, spreading joy and promoting mental health awareness.
Scheduled for Nov. 30, this event promises an evening of humour and light-hearted entertainment featuring headliner Scott Faulconbridge and MC Justin Shaw, who are celebrated for their witty storytelling and engaging performances. Rated PG-13, the event is family-friendly, making it a perfect night out for families with older children and teenagers.
Cortese highlighted the significance of such events, stating, "Our goal is to erase the stigma surrounding mental health, so everyone feels comfortable accessing services. Events like 'Stand Up for Mental Health' play a crucial role in achieving this by bringing the community together to enjoy comedy while supporting a vital cause."
Attendees can expect not only a night filled with laughter but also an opportunity to contribute to a greater cause—enhancing the mental health services provided by CMHA. Through events like this, CMHA continues to bridge the gap between mental health support and community engagement, fostering an environment where mental well-being is openly discussed and actively supported. Buy tickets online today!
For more information on CMHA's services or to get involved, visit CMHA York Region South Simcoe's website.