Banff will be hosting its first-ever Mental Health Week in an effort to combat the stigmatization of mental illnesses in the Bow Valley. Makaylah Rogers, who moved from Australia to Canmore in 2016, struggled with their mental health upon arrival. Despite the beauty of the mountains, Rogers felt isolated and overwhelmed by feelings of loneliness and suicidal ideation. They struggled with childhood trauma and a lack of identity, but eventually found a sense of community and healing through creating a donut shop called Frankie D’s Donuts. The business serves as a safe space for connecting with others and sharing lived experiences over delicious treats.
Frankie D’s Donuts has become a place for Rogers and their wife to bridge the gap they once felt in the Bow Valley regarding mental health support. Margie Smith, a site administrator at Banff’s Mineral Springs Hospital, highlighted the challenges faced by many newcomers to the area, such as food security, housing security, and the loss of deep connections from home. The community has ample resources to help those struggling with mental health issues, but many individuals do not know how to access them. Banff’s Mental Health Week, set to begin on May 6, aims to bring these resources to the forefront through various events like coffee with RCMP officers, community dinners, group discussions, and activities for children and seniors.
The idea for Mental Health Week in Banff was inspired by resident Dr. Shakil Amin, who experienced a mental health crisis following the death of his young son after a battle with cancer. Amin grappled with grief, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression, which led him to stop practicing medicine and feel like a failure in various aspects of his life. Despite knowing the importance of seeking help as a physician, Amin initially struggled to do so himself. However, three years later, he decided to reach out for support and hopes to encourage others to do the same. Amin believes that Mental Health Week can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and guide individuals toward a brighter path.
The community in Banff is rallying behind Mental Health Week, with support from various organizations and individuals. Lori Bayne, the chair of Banff Mineral Springs Hospital’s community board, expressed the growing concern that many residents do not know where to find mental health resources. The week-long event aims to connect people, spark conversations about mental health, and increase awareness of available support services. Through events like coffee sessions, group discussions, and community activities, Mental Health Week hopes to break down barriers to accessing mental health care and encourage individuals to seek help when needed.
Overall, Banff’s first Mental Health Week is a significant step towards addressing mental health challenges in the Bow Valley. By sharing personal stories, creating safe spaces for discussion, and highlighting available resources, the event aims to reduce stigma, increase mental health awareness, and provide support to those in need. Through the bravery and resilience of individuals like Makaylah Rogers and Dr. Shakil Amin, the community is coming together to prioritize mental health and support those who may be struggling. The hope is that Mental Health Week will serve as a catalyst for positive change and encourage open conversations about mental wellness in Banff and beyond.
