Breaking the Silence Together: A Meaningful Community Conversation on Mental Health

Focus Area: Mental Health Awareness & Community Wellness
Candidate: Anita Roy for City Councillor, St. Norbert - Seine River
Focus: Listening, Understanding, Mental Health Advocacy

"A meaningful conversation in the community about the importance of mental health-listening, understanding and together planned to do more mental health awareness"

Some conversations change hearts-and this was one of them. I recently sat down with residents of St. Norbert - Seine River for an open, honest discussion about mental health, one of the most important issues facing our families, our youth, and our seniors today.

Why This Conversation Matters

Mental health touches every neighbourhood, every workplace, and every home-yet it is still surrounded by silence and stigma. When we create safe spaces to listen and understand, we tell our neighbours one powerful message: you are not alone and your wellbeing matters.

During our conversation, residents shared personal stories, real challenges, and hopeful ideas-from the pressures facing our young people, to the isolation experienced by some of our seniors, to the everyday stress that so many families quietly carry.

From Conversation to Community Action

Listening is only the beginning. Together, we planned concrete steps to grow mental health awareness across our ward:

• Community Awareness Events: Hosting open conversations, workshops, and wellness gatherings in our community centres.
• Stronger Partnerships: Working with local mental health organizations and support services to connect residents with real resources.
• Youth & Senior Focus: Ensuring programs reach the generations that need support the most.
• Compassionate Community Building: Fostering a ward where checking in on one another becomes second nature.

Thank You for Your Courage

To everyone who spoke up, listened, and shared their story-thank you. Your courage is what will turn this conversation into lasting change. As your City Councillor, I will carry your voices to City Hall and keep fighting for a community where mental health is treated with the same care and urgency as physical health.

Together, let's keep listening, keep understanding, and keep building a healthier St. Norbert - Seine River.