Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta are raising awareness about loneliness and depression during National Depression Screening Day week, which runs Oct. 5 to 11. Nearly one-in-five Canadians between the ages of 15 and 24 say they always or often feel lonely, according to the Calgary Counselling Centre. While loneliness and depression are not the same thing, mental health experts say the two can be closely connected. Feeling disconnected or unlike yourself can sometimes be an early sign that someone may be struggling with their mental health. The organizations are encouraging Albertans to take three minutes to check in on their mental health through a free, anonymous online screening. The screening can help people better understand how they are feeling, determine whether they may benefit from additional support, and connect them with resources. The Calgary Counselling Centre is also hosting three in-person events throughout the week. One Step Better: National Depression Screening Day takes place Tuesday, October 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Fairmont Palliser. Broadcaster and mental health advocate Scott Oake will join a keynote and fireside chat focused on mental health, addiction, recovery and workplace stigma. On Thursday, October 8, Mental Health Care for Turbulent Times will take place at the Central Library. The free event begins at 6 p.m. and will focus on practical ways to manage stress. The week wraps up Oct. 10 with an Inside Out 2 family event, also at the Central Library. Calgary Counselling Centre experts will discuss how parents can support children experiencing big emotions, as well as how parents can manage their own emotions. The event will also include a screening of Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2.
