Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Days Come to Whitehorse
WHITEHORSE - The Canadian Mental Health Association, Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition, Yukon College Counseling Services and Mental Health Services have joined forces to sponsor Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Day. This event, held during Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 1st - 5th) will raise awareness of depression, anxiety and risky drinking.
“We learned last year that Beyond the Blues is a great opportunity for people to learn more about the symptoms of some mental health problems,” says Marie Fast, Clinical Manager for Mental Health Services.
“The beauty of this program is that anyone can come – whether you are concerned about your own health or someone you love, or are just plain curious.”
Beyond the Blues gives people an opportunity to pick up information on mental health problems, and then fill out short self-tests on depression, anxiety and risky drinking, talk privately with a clinician about the results and next steps, and find out about resources and supports.
Three sessions are planned this year:
- Monday, October 1 – Canada Games Centre – 3 to 9 pm
- Tuesday, October 2 – Yukon College – the Pit – 11 to 2 pm
- Wednesday, October 3 – St. Elias Convention Centre Atrium in Haines Junction – 10 to 4
The events are free, anonymous, confidential and walk-in. Everyone is welcome to attend - whether you want to fill out a self-test or not.
“We are pleased to be working with Mental Health Services on this event,” says Ron Pond, Co-chair with the newly formed Canadian Mental Health Association. “This particular time of year can often bring unique stresses related to work and school.”
Depression affects about one in seven in a lifetime and anxiety problems affect one in six.
For more information about Mental Illness Awareness Week 2012 please visit http://www.hss.gov.yk.ca/miaw.php or call Mental Health Services at 867-667-8346 (1-800-661-0408 extension 8346 in the communities).
Contact:
Marie Fast (YG Mental Health)
(867) 667 8346
Ron Pond (CMHA)
(867) 668 2886
Michael Vernon (Yukon College)
(867) 668 8786
