SUDBURY, Ont. – The Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League’s (NOJHL) 3rd Annual Showcase was not only an action-packed two days of hockey, but an event that helped raise more than $4,500 for the Canadian Mental Health Association – Sudbury/Manitoulin (CMHA – S/M) branch.
For the second straight year, the NOJHL used the event to put a spotlight on mental health.
Those in attendance were able to learn more about the importance of mental wellness and the local services that are available should an individual or their families be suffering.
“The NOJHL has been a strong supporter of mental health in our community and a leader in supporting the mental health of their players,” said Marion Quigley, CEO, CMHA – S/M.
“I’d like to thank Commissioner Robert Mazzuca, his staff, and all of the NOJHL teams for their continued support of our sports mental health program Talk Today and their generous donation to our branch.”
The NOJHL is also entering its fourth season with CMHA’s Talk Today program, one of the most comprehensive mental health programs for amateur sports in Canada. Over the past three seasons 550 players, 16 coaches/managers, seven billets/parents, and 22 office staff members have received safeTALK training. safeTALK is an accredited training program that teaches individuals how to recognize people with thoughts of suicide and to connect them with supports in their community.
“Our annual showcase has grown to become one of the biggest events of our season each year and we’re proud to be able to use this event to give back to the community by supporting the CMHA and the services they provide,” offered NOJHL Commissioner Mazzuca.
FAST FACTS
• In any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experiences a mental health or addiction problem.
• 70% of mental health problems have their onset during childhood or adolescence.
• Young people aged 15 to 24 are more likely to experience mental illness and/or substance use disorders than any other age group.