On September 10, staff members from the Community Wellness Department, Children’s Mental Health Workers, presented materials to staff, students and families surrounding the topics of Life Promotion and Wellness. The presentation was given in the classrooms at both Biidaaban Kinoomaagegamik (by Raven and Somer) and Espanola High School (by Darlene and Allison) in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Awareness Day. “This day is a significant opportunity for us to raise awareness about suicide prevention and promote mental health within our community,” states Raven.
To help support this initiative the Mental Health and Addictions team has developed a "Life Promotion Wellness Guide." Raven outlined that “this guide focuses on essential aspects of self-care, highlights the importance of mental well-being, and provides valuable resources and pathways to support services. We believe that by sharing this guide, we can offer practical tools and support to those who may need it.” Click here for Life Promotion Wellness Guide.
Each student received a Wellness Baggie that included a coping strategy/tool, a wellness guide, and a healthy snack. They also received a handout to take home outlining tips on managing stress, feelings, and suggestions for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Click here for Coping with Changes and Feeling Overwhelmed: A Guide for Kids. The Mental Health and Addictions team is always ready to offer assistance and direct you to the proper contacts for any concerns regarding your well-being.
“Starting in September, I'll be relaunching the Wellness Wednesday Email Series focusing on mental health, for a period of six weeks, says Raven Hammond. With all the exciting changes—new school, staff, and positive developments—this is a great opportunity to address and break the stigma around mental health. If you have any topics you'd like to see covered, please feel free to send me a direct email: Raven_Hammond@sagamok.ca.”
Safe Talk Training for anyone over the age of 16, lunch and learns at the High School and Biidaaban, and a community dinner on the evening of September 10, were organized. The dinner welcomed anyone from the community to attend for a full-course meal followed by a candlelight vigil in honour of all affected by suicide. September 10th was recognized world-wide-- these events were all developed by the Community Wellness Department Mental Health and Addictions Team and acknowledged by Sagamok Anishnawbek community members on that day. Miigwetch to everyone involved with this important discussion and awareness brought to mental health, suicide awareness and strategies for personal wellness.
