Canadian Mental Health Association – Edmonton

We are excited to highlight the work of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA-Edmonton) in this month’s Charity Spotlight. CMHA is the leading mental health organization in Edmonton, delivering key services in the areas of mental health support, education, training, and collective action.  

Continue reading to find out more about the work CMHA-Edmonton provides to our community, and how you can help support their efforts. 

Services Offered by CMHA – Edmonton 

CMHA-Edmonton is proud to offer individual and family support programs including peer supports, navigating supports (including 211), and advocacy for individuals and family struggling with mental health.  

• Access to essential resources like 211, a confidential helpline connecting individuals with community and social services. 
  •  The Distress Line, 780-482-4357 (HELP) offers free, confidential, and immediate support to those experiencing crisis or distress. 
  • 988 is a new suicide crisis and intervention helpline. A safe space to talk 24/7 365 days a year. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, call, or text 988.  
• For those seeking ongoing support, CMHA’s peer and family support programs offer understanding and encouragement from individuals with lived experience.  
• If you are coping with the loss of a loved one due to suicide, their grief support services provide a safe space to process your emotions and connect with others who understand what you’re going through.  
• For individuals facing housing instability, CMHA-Edmonton’s housing program helps eligible persons securing safe and stable living arrangements. 
• To empower our community to respond effectively to mental health crises, CMHA-Edmonton offers Applied Suicide Skills Intervention Training (ASSIST) and Mental Health First Aid.  
• ASSIST is a two-day course that equip participants with the skills and knowledge to recognize the signs of distress, provide immediate support, and connect individuals with further help when needed.  

CMHA-Edmonton wants to ensure that everyone is given the opportunity to experience good mental health and well-being. You can learn more about CMHA-Edmonton programs, services, and training by visiting their website. 

“Every year, CMHA-Edmonton answers 100,000 help line calls, online messages, and texts, helps 2,000 participants through family and peer programs and supports 700 learners in Recovery College, and hundreds more training attendees.” 

How you can help 

As a non-profit organization, CMHA-Edmonton thrives on the support of volunteers, community partners, and individuals to help make a difference for those living with mental health challenges.  

You can help support CMHA-Edmonton by: 

• Making a one-time or ongoing donation 
• Hosting a fundraising event 
• Volunteering with the distress line or as a special events ambassador 
• Sponsoring an event or program of interest 
• Become a member and join a movement to build a community of hope, support, and inclusion 

Mark your calendars for the June 5 Charity Golf Classic! 

CMHA-Edmonton is excited to be hosting their Charity Golf Classic, presented by Volvo Cars Edmonton, happening on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at the prestigious Belvedere Golf & Country Club in Sherwood Park!  

Enjoy complimentary breakfast and lunch, and explore exciting activities throughout the day, including the chance to bid on exquisite silent auction items. Tickets can be purchased for single golfers or teams of four.  

Tournament proceeds will improve CMHA-Edmonton’s individual and family support programs. CMHA-Edmonton recognizes that the path to mental well-being impacts more than one person. Support is essential for family, friends, and caregivers also affected by the struggles of their loved ones. If you are interested in participating, you can purchase tickets here. 

To stay up to date, be sure to follow CMHA-Edmonton on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, YouTube or LinkedIn. 

Mental health can impact anyone and touches the lives of many. It is more important than ever to continue speaking about its importance and to create a safe space for people to seek the help they need. We want to thank CMHA-Edmonton for providing essential, and life changing support and resources to our community.