On February, 4th the Coquitlam express will be hosting their inaugural Mental Health Matters game when the Victoria Grizzlies come to town. This game is to keep the conversation going about Mental Health and showcasing all the various resources in our community to support people who are struggling.
The event is copying what the NHL and Vancouver Canucks are doing for #HockeyTalks. Hockey Talks is a program that was inspired by Rick Rypien, former Canucks forward, who tragically lost his battle with mental health issues in 2011. Today, several NHL teams , including our own Abbotsford Canucks, sharing resources, stories and breaking the stigma about mental health issues.
EXPRESS SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVES
On February, 4 Express players will wear Hockey Talks helmet decals and will share their messages online through the #BreakTheIce Campaign.
#HockeyTalks Social Media Campaign
Fans are encouraged to share personal messages and messages of support to create an atmosphere of open dialogue and awareness about mental health, using the hashtag #HockeyTalks.
Resources (from the Vancouver Canucks)
Other Resources for Indigenous Canadians:
The KUU-US Crisis Line Society provides crisis services for Indigenous people across BC. Adults: 250-723-4050, Youth Line: 250-723-2040, or call toll free: 1-800-588-8717
The Métis Crisis Line is a service of Métis Nation British Columbia. Call 1-833-MétisBC (1-833-638-4722)..
Canada-wide Resources:
Hope for Wellness Help Line offers immediate help to all Indigenous people across Canada 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (More information is available here). Call 1-855-242-3310 (toll-free) or connect to the online chat at hopeforwellness.ca
Native Youth Crisis Hotline 1-877-209-1266. Answered by staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Available throughout Canada and the US.
