The Mental Health Table is teaming up with the Chatham Maroons to help break the stigma of mental health.
The group, which is a collaboration of local organizations that are committed to improving mental health and well-being in Chatham-Kent, is bringing the Face Off for Mental Health program to the community.
"The stats used to be one in five youth would struggle with their mental health, and since the pandemic that has changed to one in three," said Cathy DeBresser Knowler, Public Health Educator with CK Public Health, and Mental Health Table facilitator. "So in hockey terms, if you think about that, that's at least one kid on a line, could be a coach, many of our parents, some of the fans, are struggling with their mental health."
Face Off for Mental Health has a number of goals, including the creation of a safe space for young athletes to talk about mental health, both on and off the ice.
"To create mental health awareness within hockey associations across Chatham-Kent. To arm coaches, players, and parents with the signs and symptoms that a child might be struggling," said DeBresser Knowler.
The Chatham Maroons are stepping up as ambassadors and will help launch the program at their game against the St. Thomas Stars on Sunday, January 19 at Memorial Arena in Chatham at 7 p.m.
"The players are going to be wearing green jerseys for warm-ups, then those are going to be auctioned off with the proceeds going back into our program. We have a pledge wall where people can write how they're going to help break the stigma of mental health. We also have lots of games for kids to come and engage with us,"said DeBresser Knowler.
Volunteers from the Mental Health Table will also be on hand to answer questions and provide resources.
The Maroons also teamed up with the group last season to promote the Be Safe app, a free resource that connects people to mental health support quickly and easily.