The importance of mental health in today’s society continues to grow, especially with the current state we are in with COVID-19 and the restrictions that are put on place. When looking at mental health through the eyes of an elite athlete who is trying to juggle hockey, academics, home life, etc it has become a top priority.
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, roughly 10-20% of Canadian youth are affected by a mental illness or disorder. And this is something the Coquitlam Express make sure is top of mind when players join the program.
This year, the Coquitlam Express has decided to do its part to spread awareness about mental health by participating in Bell Let’s Talk Day. This annual initiative allows people to get the conversation started on mental health. The challenge is to continue the talk once the day is over.
Bell Let’s Talk Day falls on Thursday, January 28, 2021
If you would like to join and help spread awareness, follow this link to find out more.
The Coquitlam Express have an open door policy with all its players, where at anytime a player can reach out.
Canadian Help Hotlines
Kids Help Phone
Call 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free) or text CONNECT to 686868.
Available 24 hours a day to Canadians aged 5 to 29 who want confidential and anonymous care from professional counsellors.
Crisis Service Canada
Available to all Canadians seeking support. Visit Crisis Services Canada for the distress centres and crisis organizations nearest you.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call the Canada Suicide Prevention Service at 1-833-456-4566 (24/7) or text 45645 (4 pm to 12 am ET).
Hope for Wellness Help Line
Call 1-855-242-3310 (toll-free) or connect to the online Hope for Wellness chat.
Available to all Indigenous peoples across Canada who need immediate crisis intervention. Experienced and culturally sensitive helpline counsellors can help if you want to talk or are distressed.
Telephone and online counselling are available in English and French. On request, telephone counselling is also available in Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut.
Statistics found from https://cmha.ca/fast-facts-about-mental-illness
