Rural peer support training offers tools to improve mental health in smaller communities

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on August 30, 2024.

The Stigma-Free Mental Health Society is announcing its third round of the Rural Peer Support Fundamentals Training, equipping residents with tools needed to support their communities.

Scheduled on Sept. 17 and 24 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m, this comprehensive training is specifically tailored to address the mental health challenges faced by rural communities, the society says, where more traditional services can be limited.

“Rural communities face unique challenges when it comes to mental health, and peer support can be a powerful tool in bridging the gap where services may be scarce,” said Andrea Paquette, president of the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society. “Our Rural Peer Support Fundamentals Training is designed to empower individuals to take action, break the stigma and create lasting, positive change in their communities. We are proud to offer this training as a way to build stronger, more supportive networks in Medicine Hat and beyond.”

Paquette says the program has been held twice before, and has been steadily gaining momentum.

“We felt it was necessary to extend beyond our rural mental Wellness toolkit,” Paquette told the News. “Peer support is a wonderful way to create groups in our communities to support one another considering there is such a lack of support for mental wellness.”

She added that it takes a champion to start a group, but that the service can be vital for those it provides for.

Led by experts with lived experience, the program covers how to create a successful and supportive environment, the essentials of caring for those who have experienced trauma, reducing the risks associated with mental health challenges, meeting the highest standards of care, among others.

Participants will also receive a free manual, “Starting a Rural Peer Support Group in Your Community: A Step-by-Step Guide,” which offers additional resources and support for launching peer support initiatives.

Those seeking more information or looking to register do so at ruralmentalwellness.com.