By Bronia Engell
The Haldimand Press
HALDIMAND—Haldimand Norfolk REACH Children’s Mental Health Services hosted a week-long series of events to honour Children’s Mental Health Week from May 1 to 7, 2023.
Families were invited to participate in the Adopt a Support Bear days at Early ON Centers in both Caledonia and Simcoe. The program was a huge success, as 600 bears found new homes and friendships.
The feature event was made possible by the heartwarming donation of teddy bears from the Calendar Club of Canada and their customers.
Other events include the Mental Fitness Family Walking Trail, located at 101 Nanticoke Creek Parkway in Townsend, a collaborative project between Haldimand County, HN-REACH and Youth Mental Health Services, and the Toronto Zoo.
The trail features 11 mental fitness stations along the path that encourage families to engage in activities that promote emotional and psychological wellbeing and will be available to the public until May 31.
Mental Fitness Placemats can also be found in local restaurants in Haldimand and Norfolk that contain fun and interactive activities promoting mental fitness and wellbeing.
“There are many things children, youth, and families can do all year long to foster their wellness,” said Scot Cooper, Manager of Child & Youth Mental Health Services, Therapy & Groups. “Exercise and activity such as going for walks, bike riding, skateboarding, or frisbee golf can make a big difference.” “Many of the mental fitness activities involve ideas such as keeping a positive or balanced mindset, being out in nature, taking breaks away from social media, being with friends and family, and doing things you enjoy together,” he explained. “However, if struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. There are many great services available throughout Haldimand and Norfolk.”
The youth website can be found at reachoutyouth.ca.
Cooper said the Support Bears have been so popular they are looking to extend the program further and that they greatly appreciate the support and enthusiasm from the community for Children’s Mental Health Week as a whole.
“It’s wonderful to be able to host these sorts of events where we can be out in the community, provide resources, and dismantle the stigma that still may get in the way of accessing service for some,” said Cooper.
