Find is a big supporter of mental health initiatives and so proud of the amazing agencies working to help those in need of supports in our community.
Studies have shown that homelessness amplifies poor mental health. The stress of experiencing homelessness may exacerbate previous mental illness and encourage anxiety, fear, depression, sleeplessness and substance use. The needs of people experiencing homelessness with mental illnesses are similar to those without mental illnesses: physical safety, education, transportation, affordable housing, and affordable medical/dental treatment. When providing care to those experiencing homelessness, it is essential to create a non-threatening and supportive atmosphere, address basic needs (e.g. food and shelter), and provide accessible care.
Community-based mental health services play an important role. Homelessness could be drastically reduced if people with severe mental illness were able to access supportive housing as well as other necessary community supports. They encounter more barriers to employment and tend to be in poorer health than other people experiencing homelessness. Housing outreach services that provide a safe place to live are a vital component of stabilizing the illness and helping individuals on their journey to recovery.
On #BellLetsTalk day, we are choosing to support a really great local initiative in #yeg called Access 24/7 which is a program run through the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation in partnership with Mental Health Foundation to provide the highest level of mental health care to the patients who need it most.
One door, one phone call, one place for help. 10% of sales from both Find locations on Wednesday January 29th will go towards this awesome resource in our city.
If you or someone you know needs support, please call 780-424-2424 any time, any day of the year.