MLA Report: Building HELP for Mental Health – A personal reflection

By Justin Wright on September 18, 2024.

As I stood at the podium to open our fourth Mental Health Summit this week, I was struck by the palpable energy in the room.

Since launching these summits in December 2023, and watching them grow in number of attendees, I’ve witnessed firsthand the continued commitment to mental health in our community. This latest gathering, centred around the theme HELP (Healthy Experiences, Lasting Positivity), was no exception.

The summit brought together an impressive array of experts and organizations. The Palix Foundation shared insights on early childhood development and mental health that could reshape our approach to early intervention.

McMan/Alberta Recovery’s presentation on addiction and mental health support was a powerful reminder of the challenges many in our community face daily. The Global Village Centre from Brooks brought a unique perspective on cultural competence in mental health care, highlighting the diverse needs of our population.

What struck me most was the collaborative spirit among attendees. In every discussion, I saw people from different backgrounds and professions coming together, sharing ideas and building connections. It’s this kind of co-operation that gives me hope for the future of mental health care in our region.

The concept of HELP resonated throughout the event. We explored ways to create healthier living experiences and foster lasting positivity in our communities. From innovative treatment approaches to community support programs, the ideas shared have the potential to make a real difference in people’s lives.

As I reflect on the summit, I’m filled with optimism. The challenges in mental health are significant, but so is our collective will to address them. Each conversation, each shared experience, brings us closer to a society where mental health is prioritized and supported.

To everyone who attended and contributed to the summit, thank you. Your dedication is making a difference. And to those reading this who may be struggling: know there’s a community here ready to support you.

Together, we’re building a foundation for better mental health, one summit, one conversation, one person at a time.

The journey continues, and I look forward to seeing what we can achieve before our next gathering. Remember, in mental health, every small step toward HELP can lead to significant positive change.

Justin Wright is the MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat

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