Mental health workshops for seniors in Sudbury

The Canadian Mental Health Association is offering a free workshop called ‘Understanding Mental Health and Well-Being Later in Life.’

To mark Ontario Seniors Month, the Canadian Mental Health Association is offering a free in-person workshop called ‘Understanding Mental Health and Well-Being Later in Life.’

Part of the reason for the workshop is that statistics show three in 10 older adults experience mental health problems in Ontario.

Roger Christopher, 93, enjoys coordinating shuffleboard games at the Walford Retirement Home where he has lived for the past eight years.

Christopher also participates in workshops on mental health and well-being for seniors.

“I think it is very important that people find out more about what’s going on with mental health,” he said.

“Listening to the radio, we have discovered that mental health (issues are) on the rise.”

Starting the conversation

Chris Coulombe, facilitator of the workshops for the CHMA, said getting the conversation started is important.

“Once we start the conversation … they understand that they are not alone,” Coulombe said.

“I think that the most important thing is recognizing that.”

Trina McKerral, activity director at the Walford Retirement Home, said the course has helped people open up about what they are feeling.

“I have seen a lot of bonds -- they said, you know, we are going to the next session together,” McKerral said.

“Then later that month, I have seen them talking about, ‘I am sorry you lost your daughter and I lost my son.’ So it helps share the burden a little bit.”

“Sometimes it’s uncomfortable to have the conversation,” Coulombe added.

“So how do we do it in a way that is going to be respectful? How are we going to be able to have the tools and the people to assist us?”

Officials with the CMHA said the workshops show how to improve mental health, recognize the signs and symptoms of mental illness and addictions and where to turn for help in the community.