Kamsack hosts impactful mental wellness event
In May 2024, leaders, health-care professionals, Elders, knowledge keepers and community members gathered in Kamsack for a Better Together mental wellness event, hosted by 10 local organizations, including the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and surrounding First Nations communities.
“Conversations were deeply impactful and important for bridging the gaps to accessing and receiving services,” said Megan Crane, SHA Primary Health Care Manager in Kamsack. “We learned so much from our partners throughout planning for this event. It was a great success due to generous support from local volunteers, organizations and businesses.”
With 459 in attendance, the three-day event combined mental health-focused presentations, community connections and resources with an interactive health fair for local organizations and businesses to engage.
The second day included a panel discussion with SHA mental health and addictions (MHAS) staff, as well as staff from Yorkton Tribal Council and SaskAbilities. It focused on accessing the paths to mental health care, what to expect during the intake process, and tools used to find appropriate mental health services. The panel examined the obstacles faced by individuals with coexisting mental health and addiction challenges and the need for simultaneous care provided by an interdisciplinary team.
Panelists addressed the importance of being aware of available mental health resources by bringing attention to local services that include counselling, ongoing support and connection to traditional knowledge keepers and ceremony.
