Even as the door barely closes on the holiday season, mental health dragons will continue to rear their ugly heads and Canadians will be forced to deal with an illness that does not easily make itself known.
Leanne Evans, program co-ordinator for Neighborhood Place said statistics show that every Canadian is indirectly affected by mental health issues and 20 per cent are personally affected.
A mental health first aid course is coming to Rimbey in January to provide education, awareness and support to those affected by mental health.
The original course was entitled First Aid for Adults who Interact with Youth. The course being offered provides the same material as available through the original course, as well as components dealing with eating disorders and self-harm.
“This course is not just for parents, it is for anybody who wants some good information (about mental health),” said Evans.
“There’s a huge, huge need out there for awareness and understanding,” she added.
The course is to be held at Blindman Valley Youth Centre on Thursday and Friday at 8:30 p.m. with supper provided on both evenings. It will continue on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and lunch will be offered.
This course is being made available through Rimbey & District Victim Services, Adult Learning and Community Wellness (facilitated by Neighborhood Place).
To register call Leanne at Neighborhood Place at 403-843-4304 or adult learning at 403-843-3201.