During May, we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month and Mental Health Week. During this time, we encourage everyone to make an extra effort to spread awareness for various mental health issues and their impact on the individual and those around them. Mental illnesses do not discriminate. They affect people of all ages, education, income, cultures, and genders; however, systemic inequalities can worsen mental health. These conditions can manifest in different ways and to varying degrees. The more we understand mental health, the better we can intervene early, offer support, and promote resilience and positive well-being.
Unfortunately, stigma surrounding mental illness remains a significant barrier, causing unjust hate and discrimination, which can deter people from reaching out due to fear of judgment or not being understood. Thus, this month also serves as an opportunity to challenge and break down the stigma associated with mental health disorders. We must work together to; replace judgment with empathy, misinformation with education, and shame with support. The more openly we speak about mental health, the more we normalize these discussions, encouraging people to reach out without fear.
Supporting organizations that specialize in the care and treatment of mental health struggles is one of United Way WRC’s focus areas. Through counselling, group programs, and education for children and adults, we prioritize mental wellness and create a healthier and more prosperous community. In our last reporting year, United Way funding directly helped 33,240 people through an investment of $341,916. Learn more about our Mental Health and Addictions supported partners on our website’s ‘Who We Fund’ page. https://www.uwaywrc.ca/what-we-do/who-we-fund/
- Bereaved Families of Ontario – Midwestern Region
- Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health
- COPE Kids
- Epilepsy South Central Ontario
- Interfaith Counselling Centre
- Langs
- Muslim Social Services Waterloo Region
- Porchlight Counselling and Addiction Services
- Sanguen Health Centre
- Shalom Counselling Services
- The Aids Committee of Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, and Area
- Woolwich Counselling Centre
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health and needs support, please contact 211. This 24/7 helpline connects individuals quickly and confidentially to essential social services, programs, and community resources.