Are you looking to get involved with mental health awareness around our city, or just participate in some events around town that will help you care for your own mental health? Here are some local events happening this fall in Saint John.
Mental Health First Aid Training
Two Mental Health Basic Training sessions are happening this fall; one from September 12 to 13, and another from Nov 4 to 5. Both take place from 9 – 4:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express at 400 Main St in the North End. These two-day sessions hosted by Arpeggio Health Services provide training on how to recognize symptoms of the most common mental health disorders, and how to intervene when someone is experiencing a crisis. Upon completion, you receive an internationally recognized certificate! It is $199 plus tax and the registration deadline for the September session is September 9, and the deadline for the November session is Nov 13, so act fast if you’re interested!
SafeTalk Suicide Alertness Training
If you’re looking for something more in your student budget and less of a time commitment, there is a SafeTalk Suicide Alertness training session happening on Nov 19 at the Holiday Inn Express. This session runs from 5 – 8:30 p.m. and trains you to become a suicide alert helper. You’ll learn how to recognize when someone is struggling with suicidal ideations and help connect them with intervention resources. This session costs $69 plus taxes and the deadline to register is Nov 13.
The Balance Festival
If you’re looking for a great way to spend your Sunday, look no further! The Balance Festival is the first of its kind in the city, being held at Lily Lake Pavilion on September 8 from 10 a.m. – 7p.m. Dozens of instructors will be teaching classes to help participants balance their mind body and spirit. The cost is $30 for an adult, $20 for students and seniors, and children are free. This is a wellness retreat for all ages, so bring the family!
Recovery Day
September is Recovery Month in Canada and a Recovery Day event will be hosted at King’s Square on September 19 from 12 – 1 p.m., come participate for free to hear first-hand stories of those who have struggled with addiction and have recovered. This event aims to bring awareness to addiction, celebrate the victories, and break down the stigma. Stop by during your lunch, you won’t regret it!
Mental Benefits of Martial Arts
As part of the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Making Wellness a Priority program, they are having an event called the Mental Benefits of Martial Arts on October 1. Hosted by Brycen Roy of Judokai-Kan Ju-Jutsu, this free event will teach you about the physical and mental benefits of Ju-Jutsu through a demonstration and discussion. This event is being held at the Saint John West Library in Lancaster Mall from 3 – 4 p.m. Register by September 26 by emailing saintjohn@cmhanb.ca, or calling 633-1705.
Sounds and Stories
The Saint John Suicide Prevention Committee is hosting Sounds and Stories, a free event right here at UNB! Come down to the Whitebone Lounge on September 14 from 7 – 9 p.m. to listen to some empowering mental health stories. Various musicians and speakers will be there to perform to build awareness of mental health issues and the support available in our community.
Stomp Out the Stigma
On October 4, the Saint John Suicide Prevention committee is having a Stomp Out the Stigma family fun-run. This event will have a 1, 5 and 10km walk/run, along with other great activities such as face painting, a BBQ, bouncy castles, touch-a-truck, reiki and massage therapy, and yoga (bring your own mat). Stop by from 8 – 2 p.m. to have some fun and to help our community decrease the stigma around mental illness!
If are currently in a crisis, please call:
Mobile Mental Health Crisis Services: 1-888-811-3664
CHIMO Crisis Line: 1-800-667-5005
Sexual Assault Support Line: 506-454-0437
Emergency Services: 911
