Education society seeking to end stigma around mental health receives grant to bolster local impact
By Medicine Hat News on August 30, 2024.
news@medicinehatnews.com A society founded in B.C. in 2010 that provides students education and resources about the importance of mental wellbeing and works to break the stigma around mental health is expanding its resources to students in Medicine Hat. On Thursday the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society announced a major expansion of it’s ‘Stigma-Free School’ program for students in southeastern Alberta following a $25,000 grant provided by the Canada Post Community Foundation. “With this new funding SFMHS is poised to make a significant impact on the mental well-being of students in the region,” states a press release. Through its programming the registered Canadian charity offers a comprehensive suite of resources tailored to meet the needs of students, educators and school counsellors at no cost, including virtual classroom presentations, interactive toolkits and Stigma-Free Clubs. The society also provides educators with professional development sessions and tools to understand and support students’ mental health. Last year the society’s president Andrea Paquette moved to Medicine Hat from B.C., and says she has been actively engaging with local school divisions, the chamber of commerce and other local organizations. “With the support of Canada Post and our local partners, we are ready to expand our reach and ensure that students in southeastern Alberta have access to mental health educational resources they need,” says Paquette. As well, the society says they have hired a new programs manager based in Medicine Hat and urges regional schools to take advantage of their free resources. “We need to get the word out even more,” says Pauette. “Together we can create a brighter, more supportive future for our youth in Alberta.” More information on the society’s free school program and resources can be found online at stigmafreementalhealth.com. 12-11
