The town of Banff is set to host its first-ever Mental Health Week, aimed at combating the stigma surrounding mental illness in the Bow Valley. Makaylah Rogers, who struggled with their mental health upon moving to Canmore from Australia in 2016, felt isolated despite the beauty of the mountains. Rogers grappled with childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and a lack of community support. Seeking to create a safe space, they founded Frankie D’s Donuts as a way to connect with others through shared experiences, bonding over donuts and conversations. Rogers is now helping bridge the gap felt by many in the Bow Valley.
Margie Smith, a site administrator at Banff’s Mineral Springs Hospital, highlighted the challenges faced by many in the community, such as food and housing security, loneliness, and a lack of connections. Despite ample resources available for mental health support, individuals often struggle to navigate them. Banff is gearing up for Mental Health Week, starting on May 6, with numerous events planned to raise awareness and encourage discussions about mental health. The goal is to connect people and ensure they have access to the resources they need to address their mental health issues.
Dr. Shakil Amin, a Banff resident, was inspired to spearhead Mental Health Week after experiencing his own mental health crisis following the death of his son from cancer. Amin grappled with grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression, causing him to withdraw from his medical practice. Despite feeling like a failure, Amin eventually sought help and wants others to know that they are not alone in their struggles. Through Mental Health Week, he hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and guide others toward a path of healing and support.
The community in Banff is coming together to address mental health challenges and provide much-needed support to those in need. By hosting Mental Health Week, they aim to raise awareness, connect individuals with resources, and encourage open conversations about mental health. This initiative is particularly important for newcomers to the area, who may feel isolated and lack the support systems they had in their hometowns. Through events like community dinners, group discussions, and activities for all ages, Banff is striving to create a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.
The impact of mental health struggles is profound and can affect individuals from all walks of life. Dr. Shakil Amin’s personal journey through grief and trauma serves as a powerful example of the challenges many people face in dealing with mental illness. By sharing his story and advocating for mental health awareness, Amin hopes to inspire others to seek help and break the silence surrounding mental health issues. Through events like Mental Health Week, the community in Banff is working to create a more compassionate and understanding environment for those struggling with mental health challenges.
Overall, the efforts of individuals like Makaylah Rogers and Dr. Shakil Amin, along with the community of Banff, highlight the importance of addressing mental health issues and working together to support those in need. By fostering a culture of openness, understanding, and connection, communities can help reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and provide vital support to individuals facing challenges. Through initiatives like Mental Health Week, Banff is taking a proactive step towards promoting mental wellness and ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
