Windsor events planned for CMHA Mental Health Week

CMHA Windsor-Essex has several activities planned to mark the 74th annual CMHA Mental Health Week.

From May 5-11, the CMHA national theme is “unmasking mental health”.

The organization says living with a mental health or substance use challenge is hard enough; masking can make it even harder. Living with mental health challenges often forces people to hide behind a “mask” to protect themselves from judgment and discrimination. But the heavier the stigma, the heavier the mask becomes, and the more isolated we feel.

The CMHA is encouraging people across Canada to look beyond the surface and see the whole person.

“Unmasking isn’t about removing a disguise — it’s about revealing our humanity. When we create space for people to show up as their true selves, we not only promote mental wellness, we build a culture of empathy, resilience, and connection,” says Nicole Sbrocca, CEO, CMHA-WECB.

CMHA officials say given the high cost of masking mental illnesses and substance use disorders, it’s critical we all work together to eliminate stigma and create a world in which people feel safe to unmask and be who they really are.

The Windsor-Essex Branch has several activities planned, including:

• May 5-11 – Caesars Windsor will be “lit up green” in recognition of Mental Health Week.
• May 6 – “Unmasking Mental Health at Work” presented by College Boreal, for more information and to register, click here.
• May 7 – Nutrition for Your Brain & Well-Being Register Here
• May 8 – McHappy Day – a portion of sales will support the Youth Wellness Hub Windsor-Essex
• May 5-9 - Ride Don’t Hide Spirit Week - a different activity each day as we approach Ride day on June 1
• May 5 - Kick-off of CMHA Mental Health Week & Ride Don’t Hide Spirit Week
• May 6 – Ride Don’t Hide Team Up Tuesday Learn moreMay 7 – Walking Wednesdays
• May 9 – FUNdraising Friday - lots of encouragement and ideas to help raise funds for Ride