Surrey Students Embrace Mental Health Awareness Through Wellness Fair
In a heartening display of community engagement and awareness, students at Enver Creek Secondary in Surrey marked Mental Health Week with their third annual Wellness Fair. This initiative, born from the vision of school counsellor Kelly Janda, aims to bridge the gap between students and the diverse array of community resources available to support mental health and overall well-being.
Janda's concept, which emerged shortly after her arrival at Enver Creek three years ago, addresses a unique challenge faced by the school's location in a residential area devoid of nearby community hubs. By inviting 26 community partners, including the City of Surrey, Surrey Police Service, Crime Stoppers, FamilySmart, and Emotions BC, the fair creates a platform for students to forge meaningful connections with local organizations.
The event's scope was further expanded to include schoolwide workshops, covering essential topics such as online safety, substance use awareness, and healthy relationships. This comprehensive approach ensures that students not only gain access to valuable resources but also acquire practical knowledge to navigate potential challenges.
Lauryn Rees, program coordinator at Emotions BC, emphasized the significance of such events in reducing barriers to mental health support. By providing a safe space for students to process emotions and seek help, these initiatives contribute to a culture of openness and support.
Rees, a 2020 graduate of École Salish Secondary, has witnessed the transformative impact of increased awareness and reduced stigma around mental health discussions among youth. She reflects on the positive changes, noting that emotions were once shrouded in silence but are now being openly addressed.
The Wellness Fair serves as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the importance of normalizing conversations about mental health. By bringing together students, educators, and community partners, this event not only provides immediate support but also fosters a sense of connection and empowerment, paving the way for a healthier and more resilient future for Surrey's youth.
