Northwestel partners with CMHA-Yukon to boost mental health support
May 7, 2020
Whitehorse, YT – Northwestel is extending support for northern mental health with a $60,000 contribution to the Canadian Mental Health Association's Yukon division (CMHA-Yukon). The three-year commitment will help fund the increased telecommunications needs of the CMHA-Yukon and allow them to reintroduce a crisis helpline to the Yukon.
During the COVID-19 situation, CMHA-Yukon is counselling clients by phone or video chat while their office remains closed to the public. CMHA-Yukon is currently in the process of training additional operators and volunteers to begin answering crisis helpline calls in the near future.
“Connecting with other people and our communities doesn’t just feel good. It’s good for our mental health,” says CMHA-Yukon Division Executive Director, Tiffanie Tasane. “We may be in a time of physical distancing, but research shows that social connection and social support are factors that protect and promote good mental health.”
“When just go through the motions, we miss a chance to connect with others in a sincere manner,” says CMHA-Yukon Division Board Chair, Nathan Schultz. “This Mental Health Week, let’s say more than just ‘I’m fine.’ Let’s have real conversations with our friends, neighbours and coworkers about how we’re all really doing.”
“Mental health impacts us all, especially during this difficult time. We are so proud to be working with such committed partners” says Northwestel President, Curtis Shaw. “From Mental Health Week activities to the counselling programs available year-round, the Canadian Mental Health Association Yukon Division is doing great work to offer mental health support for Canadians. Thank you to all of the Mental Health workers going the extra mile during these unprecedented times.”
May 2 to May 10 is Mental Health Week in Canada.
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Contact:
Tiffanie Tasane
Executive Director, CMHA-YT
(867) 668-6429
ttasane@yukon.cmha.ca
Northwestel Media Relations
(867) 455-4209
media@nwtel.ca
