June is Men's Mental Health Month.

June is Men's Mental Health Month. Over the last few months, statistics have been consistently showing an increase in the number of men losing their lives to toxic drugs (https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/death/coroners-service/statistical-reports)

We can only speculate why this may be happening. Reasons could include more physically demanding jobs such as in construction and the trades, men suppressing their feelings due to the image society has painted of them being strong and tough, fewer resources specific to men, the societal pressures we place on them, and more.

We recognize a big part of this crisis is the stigma that society holds around substance use. People who use substances often say they feel judged, ostracized, and penalized for their coping methods. 

Part of what we do within the Tri-Cities Community Action Team is working towards breaking down stigmas around substance use and mental health, through interactive education, creative visuals, and bridging resources.  

We wish to acknowledge and celebrate the valuable contributions, dedication, and presence of the men in our community.

We see you, we appreciate you. 

In honour of Men's Mental Health Month, we have put together a series of events:

June 13th —we will hand out appreciation goody bags to men at Starbucks on Barnet Highway (2881 Barnt Highway) first thing in the morning, around 7:30 am. 

Goody bags include something sweet, salty, grounding, silly, warm, and resourceful. 

June 17th — Naloxhome will host a workshop at the Coquitlam Public Library from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm.

This workshop, facilitated by the NaloxHome Team, a youth-led organization, will equip young people with knowledge and skills to navigate the toxic drug crisis.

What you'll gain:

Historical Context: Gain insights into the history and root causes of the toxic drug crisis.

Combatting Stigma: Explore the myths and misperceptions surrounding substance use and overdose.

Staying Safe Strategies: Learn about harm reduction principles and how to administer naloxone in an emergency.

By attending this workshop, you'll be empowered to play a role in keeping your community safe.

This event is not limited to Youth - community welcome.

It is free to attend - registration is suggested but not required.

More information here: https://coquitlam.libnet.info/event/10772508

June 18th — We will host a screening of the 'TOXIC' Documentary

Put together by Diamondhead Films & Mt. Pleasant Films

at the Coquitlam Public Library from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm.

Focus: The documentary sheds light on the devastating impact of the fentanyl overdose crisis plaguing Vancouver, British Columbia.

Content:

Crisis Scope: Explores the magnitude of the problem, highlighting the rising number of fentanyl-related deaths in Vancouver.

Human Impact: The documentary tells the stories of individuals and families directly affected by the crisis. Including those who have struggled with addiction, those who have lost loved ones to overdoses, and frontline workers battling the epidemic.

Root Causes: Delving into the factors contributing to the crisis, such as the illegal drug trade, accessibility of fentanyl, and lack of resources for harm reduction and addiction treatment.

Systemic Issues: Examining broader societal issues that exacerbate the crisis, like poverty, homelessness, and inadequate mental health support.

Responses and Solutions: It might showcase the efforts of various stakeholders, including community organizations, healthcare providers, and policymakers, in tackling the crisis. This could involve harm reduction initiatives, increased access to treatment programs, and advocacy for policy changes.

Registration suggested but not recommended.

There can often be obstacles for men to address their mental well-being; To navigate this, here's a checklist crafted to support men in prioritizing their mental well-being (brought to you by GroupHealth Benefits)

1. Find healthy coping mechanisms: Develop constructive ways to manage stress and difficult emotions. Engage in activities like exercise, meditation, or spending time outdoors to alleviate tension and boost mood.
2. Seek professional help: Be proactive about seeking professional support when needed. Therapy, counseling, or support groups can offer valuable resources and strategies for managing mental health challenges.
3. Strive for work-life balance: Strive for equilibrium between work responsibilities and personal life. Overworking or neglecting leisure time can contribute to stress and burnout. Set boundaries and prioritize self-care.
4. Focus on your physical health: Recognize the connection between physical and mental well-being. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, nutritious eating habits, and adequate sleep.

Mens Support Resources 

• Canadian Men’s Health Foundation
1. https://menshealthfoundation.ca/
2. Providing information, tools, and motivation for men and their families
3. Podcasts, mental health/wellness checks, 
• HE: He Changed it - App
1. https://hechangedit.com/
2. Through thousands of hours of research and development, he. has worked with experts to determine the top pain points that create tension, stress, anxiety, and depression thus intensifying underlying health challenges. Additionally, he. has created a safe space for men to connect those who have lived experience and those looking for help. Our chat platform, accessed anonymously if desired, is a “take what you need, leave what you know” approach to self-mentoring. This two-pronged approach addresses loneliness and the need to feel heard and understood while addressing the human need to fulfil purpose and change our definition of man up.
• Heads up Guys
1. Tips, tools, information, and recovery stories
2. www.Headsupguys.org/ info@headsupguys.org
• Courses designed to equip men with skills to:
• Manage and regulate thoughts and emotions
• Navigate common life challenges
• Managing Anger and Irritability
• Rewiring Negative Thoughts
• Mindfulness for Men
• more courses in the works - including one to help train everyone in providing peer support. 
• Last Door (New West)
1. https://lastdoor.org/
2. Ages 13-18 and 19 -25
3. 1-855-971-0486 Recovery Helpline - Detox and more information 
4. 1-855-910-5942 (for men and youth)
5. located in New Westminster BC and Clients come from across Canada to participate
• Tailgate Toolkit 
1. https://thetailgatetoolkit.ca/
2. The Tailgate Toolkit Project consists of four components; on-site/virtual toolbox talks, supervisory training for site and company leaders, an industry support group, and extensive, region-specific resource guides for folks working in the construction/trades industry.
3. Contact: harmreductionvancouver@vicabc.ca or Greg Hemminger 604.260.0755 

1. Practice mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Mindful activities such as deep breathing exercises or mindful meditation can help center your thoughts and emotions.

Whether you're using this checklist for yourself or giving it to a family member, remember that taking care of mental well-being is a sign of strength, not weakness. Let’s work together to promote a culture of openness and support for men's mental health.