The Vancouver Giants and the Canadian Mental Health Association Vancouver-Fraser Branch are teaming up to raise awareness about the importance of mental health on Saturday, February 2nd when the Vancouver Giants play host to the Prince George Cougars at 7:00 PM at the Langley Events Centre.
Saturday’s game will feature:
- A CMHA kiosk so fans can learn more about mental health.
- Videos featuring Vancouver players talking about the importance of mental health.
- Public address announcements about mental health.
- Information surrounding the CMHA’s Ride Don’t Hide Event taking place June 23, 2019.
The awareness campaign is part of the ongoing commitment by the Vancouver Giants and CMHA Vancouver-Fraser Branch to implement Talk Today. Talk Today provides mental health support to players and raises awareness about mental health and suicide prevention throughout communities across the Western Hockey League.
A key piece of the Talk Today program has been to educate players about mental health and suicide prevention. Every team, including the Vancouver Giants has received mental health training specific to suicide prevention. Each team is also now linked to a CMHA Mental Health Coach, who provides support and mental health resources to individuals in need.
“CMHA Vancouver-Fraser is proud to partner with the Vancouver Giants for “Talk Today” on February 2. As leaders and role models within our community, the Vancouver Giants and players in the WHL take their health seriously. At Canadian Mental Health Association, we need your help to both honour the 1 in 5 Canadians who experience mental illness and to support all people in maintaining positive mental health. Join Ride Don’t Hide, our signature fundraising event on June 23th – Register, Donate or Volunteer at ridedonthide.com,” said Michael Anhorn, Executive Director, CMHA Vancouver-Fraser.
“Every day we strive to create a safe and healthy environment for our players and staff,” adds Vancouver Giants Head Coach, Michael Dyck. “It’s very important for the Vancouver Giants and the Western Hockey League to participate in this initiative. Talk Today provides an excellent resource for all of us so that we can continue to have an open, honest conversation about mental health.”
