May 5 to 11 marks Mental Health Week in Canada—a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage meaningful conversations around mental wellness. As a long-standing advocate for the health and wellbeing of Albertans, Alberta Blue Cross® is proud to support this important cause through their sponsorship of YMCA of Northern Alberta’s Y Mind program. This free mental wellness initiative helps young people build resilience, manage stress and anxiety and access the support they need.
According to the YMCA, more than 1 million children and youth in Canada are impacted by mental health challenges, yet less than 20 per cent receive appropriate treatment.
Y Mind is a free, 7-week mental wellness program that supports teens ages 13 to 18 and young adults ages 18 to 30 who are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety. Through Y Mind, participants learn and practice evidence-based strategies to manage stress and improve their mental wellbeing. The program is delivered in person by trained facilitators in Edmonton, Grande Prairie and the Wood Buffalo region, and is also available virtually across the province.
Interested participants can learn more and sign up for a sessions online at Y Mind | YMCA of Northern Alberta.
“We know youth in our province are struggling—the need for a safe space to connect with others, find a sense of belonging and become equipped with usable tools to manage anxiety is keenly felt by young people, says Aaron Teel, program manager, Y Mind. “Outcomes of Y Mind show that the majority of youth who participate improve their score on the generalized anxiety disorder scale, meaning their feelings for anxiety decreased and their mental health improved. They’re also connected to a supportive and inclusive community who is there to help them shine their brightest.”
“At Alberta Blue Cross®, we are deeply committed to supporting the mental wellness of Alberta’s youth,” says Narissa Kanji, director of Community Impact at Alberta Blue Cross®. “With mental health concerns continuing to rise for young people across our province, programs like Y Mind are more critical than ever. We are proud to partner with the YMCA to offer this free program, which connects peers and equips youth with the tools to reduce anxiety and stress.”
About Alberta Blue Cross®
As the largest provider of health benefits in Alberta, we believe we have the potential and responsibility to impact people’s lives for the better. We believe all communities should thrive, and we are committed to serving as a champion for wellness by promoting the health of Albertans.
About YMCA of Northern Alberta
YMCA of Northern Alberta is a registered charity dedicated to igniting the potential in people since 1907. From providing quality childcare and supporting people in their health and wellness to delivering important community outreach programs, the YMCA works to strengthen communities in the Red Deer, Wood Buffalo, Grande Prairie and Edmonton regions. For more information, visit ymcanab.ca.
For more information, please contact
Jaclyn Spurrell, manager of Corporate Communications, Alberta Blue Cross® jspurrel@ab.bluecross.ca or 780-498-8255.
Deanna Barker, director of Marketing and Communications, YMCA of Northern Alberta deanna.barker@ymcanab.ca or 587-743-1068.
