Connections Wellness Centre

By Chris Koo

Mental health

CMHA says practicing compassion is more critical now than ever

May 8, 2024 | 4:54 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – More than a third of Canadians will experience mental illness during their lives, says the Canadian Mental Health Association(CMHA).

The organization’s new data also reports that 89 per cent of British Columbians claimed to be compassionate last year, but only 14 per cent sought help to disentangle their hardships.

Elanie Laberge, the association’s executive director, says “healing through compassion”—this year’s theme for Mental Health Week—is more needed than ever.

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With too many people not seeking the support they need, Laberge says her job is to destigmatize the mental illness.

“When you break your arm, you go get help, and you don’t hide that you have that broken arm. The same needs to become true for mental illness.”

Laberge says they showcase clinical services and local food banks at the Connections Wellness Centre for this year’s mental health week.

Curry Robert is a long-time client of the organization, and he has a mental illness and carried prosthetic eyes at a very young age.

He says the CMHA supported him through various peer support and housing programs.

Robert says don’t be ashamed to seek help if you have a mental illness.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help from anybody. Anybody will help you. This world is becoming such a beautiful place. And if they won’t help you, they will probably steer you in the right direction where you could get help.”

In response to this year’s theme of compassion, Curry says he’s very compassionate, and taking care of his own mental health has helped him to take care of others.