Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Days Come to Whitehorse

September 27, 2012

WHITEHORSE - The Canadian Mental Health Association, Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition, Yukon College Counseling Services and Mental Health Services have joined forces to sponsor Beyond the Blues: Depression Anxiety Education and Screening Day.  This event, held during Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 1st - 5th) will raise awareness of depression, anxiety and risky drinking.

�We learned last year that Beyond the Blues is a great opportunity for people to learn more about the symptoms of some mental health problems,� says Marie Fast, Clinical Manager for Mental Health Services. 

�The beauty of this program is that anyone can come � whether you are concerned about your own health or someone you love, or are just plain curious.�

Beyond the Blues gives people an opportunity to pick up information on mental health problems, and then fill out short self-tests on depression, anxiety and risky drinking, talk privately with a clinician about the results and next steps, and find out about resources and supports.

Three sessions are planned this year:

  • Monday, October 1 � Canada Games Centre � 3 to 9 pm
  • Tuesday, October 2 � Yukon College � the Pit � 11 to 2 pm
  • Wednesday, October 3 � St. Elias Convention Centre Atrium in Haines Junction � 10 to 4

The events are free, anonymous, confidential and walk-in.  Everyone is welcome to attend - whether you want to fill out a self-test or not.

�We are pleased to be working with Mental Health Services on this event,� says Ron Pond, Co-chair with the newly formed Canadian Mental Health Association. �This particular time of year can often bring unique stresses related to work and school.� 

Depression affects about one in seven in a lifetime and anxiety problems affect one in six. 

For more information about Mental Illness Awareness Week 2012 please visit http://www.hss.gov.yk.ca/miaw.php or call Mental Health Services at 867-667-8346 (1-800-661-0408 extension 8346 in the communities).

Contact:

Marie Fast (YG Mental Health)
(867) 667 8346     

Ron Pond (CMHA)  
(867) 668 2886   

Michael Vernon (Yukon College)
(867) 668 8786