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YMCA Halifax conference helps Canadians combat loneliness

Four hundred people from across Canada recently gathered in Halifax at a national conference organized by the YMCA last month. One of the key topics on the agenda was exploring ways to combat the loneliness epidemic and help people feel more connected. The YMCA has designed “Y Mind,” a free mental wellness program for youth as an early intervention initiative to help teens and young adults manage stress and anxiety. It has been available in BC since 2018 and has now expanded to 21 YMCAs across Canada.

Y Mind Teen is a free, seven-week mental wellness program for teens aged 13 to 18 who experience mild-to-moderate anxiety or stress, and Y Mind Youth is a free, seven-week mental wellness program for young adults aged 18 to 30 struggling with mild-to-moderate anxiety or stress. These programs help participants learn evidence-based skills from trained mental health professionals and aim to reduce anxiety, improve well-being, and decrease feelings of isolation by connecting young adults with similar experiences.

Brian Posavad, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth, said the YMCA has initiated programs focusing on youth resilience and mental health. “Programs like ‘Y Mind’ and traditional ones like overnight camping, where participants disconnect from social media and connect with people and nature, are examples. Our goal is to bring people together, creating a family-like support system,” he explained.

The YMCA emphasizes the health benefits of these programs, noting that participants not only work out but also build connections with their community, seeing each other and feeling connected. The YMCA welcomes everyone to visit their facilities to see what they offer and how they can help those in need.