Rural Minds Matter peer support training session

By Heather Cameron
Taber Times
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Experts from the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society, in partnership with Sara Riel Foundation Inc. (SR Training), a Winnipeg-based charity specializing in mental health and addiction support, will be facilitating Rural Minds Matter Peer Support Training through an online session on January 24-25 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (MST).

“The Rural Minds Matter Peer Support Training seeks to diminish mental health stigma and foster a culture of peer support within rural and agricultural communities,” said Andrea Paquette, President of the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society. “Furthermore, the program emphasizes the importance of forming peer support groups that create lasting connections among individuals. These groups not only provide immediate support but also serve as a foundation for ongoing community engagement and sustained mental health advocacy. The Rural Minds Matter Peer Support Training represents a vital step toward empowering individuals in rural and agricultural communities to take charge of mental health discussions. These areas often face unique challenges, including limited access to mental health resources, geographical isolation, and a deep-seated stigma surrounding mental health care. This program not only fosters community resilience but also enables neighbours to support one another in meaningful ways. By forming peer support groups, participants create a network where shared experiences can be openly discussed, thereby breaking down barriers to seeking help.”

Paquette also said that the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society recognizes the importance of providing ongoing support to these groups, ensuring they have the resources, guidance, and encouragement needed to thrive. 

“This initiative will help cultivate a culture of understanding and compassion, allowing individuals to lean on each other during difficult times,” said Paquette. “In rural and agricultural communities, where the challenges can feel overwhelming, the empowerment of neighbours supporting neighbours is not just beneficial but essential for achieving better mental health outcomes. It paves the way for stronger, more connected communities dedicated to nurturing mental wellness together.”

Paquette believes that rural and agricultural communities often encounter unique obstacles, such as limited access to mental health resources, which can make discussions around mental wellness feel particularly daunting.

“By offering comprehensive training on mental health awareness and effective support strategies, the program aims to empower community members to engage in open conversations surrounding mental health and provide essential support to those navigating challenges related to their well-being,” said Paquette.

The Stigma-Free Mental Health Society, Paquette stated, was founded in 2010 in Victoria, BC, and is a registered charity committed to breaking down mental health stigma through education and awareness. The organization’s mission, Paquette says, focuses on fostering an open dialogue about mental health issues, particularly in underserved communities.

“By transforming the narrative around mental health into one of shared experience and collective resilience, the program encourages a culture where seeking help is normalized and embraced,” said Paquette.

Paquette said that on day one of the training, participants will explore foundational concepts of peer support, including models of care, defining compassion, and core values essential for effective peer support while day two will focus on practical implementation, guiding participants in creating Peer Support Groups tailored to their communities. Each participant will receive an instructional manual to aid in the development of these groups and receive post support through the Society, Paquette says. 

The training is offered online to make it available all across Canada, and those interested in registering can do so at: https://register.ruralmentalwellness.com/. According to the website, those who find the registration fee a barrier can contact the facilitators to discuss fee waiver options.

The program, Paquette said, is intended for adults living or working in rural and agricultural communities who are interested in mental health support and peer connections, and it is particularly relevant for those seeking to combat stigma and enhance the mental well-being of their communities, farmers, ranchers, other agricultural workers, and those who support/interact with these folks in their day-to-day lives. 

“The program is crucial as it addresses the surging mental health struggles in rural and agricultural communities, where mental health services are often limited,” said Paquette. “By training individuals to provide peer support, the program aims to create a sustainable support network that fosters mental wellness and combats stigma. Together, we can ensure that mental health is not an uncomfortable topic but rather a vital aspect of overall wellness that everyone can contribute to and benefit from. The Stigma-Free Mental Health Society’s commitment to combating mental health stigma is vitally important to our work, and the collaborative effort with Sara Riel Foundation Inc. underscores the importance of community-based support. Engaging in this training can pave the way for meaningful change and support in rural communities, making it a significant opportunity not to be missed. Let’s connect for change and empower our rural communities toward mental wellness!”