Bow Valley See the Signs

06/16/2026

Mental health support does not come from a single organization. This year’s Mental Health & Addiction Week was a great example of how much can happen when a community comes together.

So many incredible organizations, grassroots groups, facilitators, volunteers, and individuals stepped up to offer meaningful programs, conversations, and opportunities for connection throughout the week.

One of our major focuses this year was strengthening community support systems by ensuring that people in leadership roles, frontline positions, and community-facing organizations were well versed in local mental health and addiction resources and services.

We worked closely with Recovery Alberta and many agencies involved in the SeeTheSigns campaign. The SeeTheSigns website is an incredible resource for the Bow Valley because it brings together a wide range of community supports and services in one place.

It recognizes that mental health support is never one-size-fits-all and helps individuals find options that may work for them — whether they are looking for early intervention supports, wellness programs, peer connection, counselling, or crisis services.

06/11/2026

How do you feel after the high water levels in the Bow Valley last week? Stressed about your home and safety, or, calm and prepared for any adverse events that come your way?

Experiencing anxiety during weather events that threaten our homes and safety is completely normal, however, we can reduce potential anxiety during emergencies by being prepared! Visit this site to learn about emergency kits and preparedness, https://www.canada.ca/en/services/policing/emergencies/preparedness/get-prepared.html

Emergencies like wildfires can take a toll on our mental health.

Coping strategies can help manage stress and improve mood. Here are some go-to tools you can put in place right away:

· Focus on what is within your control
· Stay connected with friends, family and supports
· Let yourself feel – grief and sadness are normal
· Limit exposure to distressing TV and social media content
· Use and share mental health resources

For more tips to manage stress: https://ow.ly/xNgq50ZacF7

06/09/2026

Seeing the signs that you are struggling with your mental health is always important, but in June we highlight how important it is to see the sign's that men in your life might be struggling as well.

If you're not sure what struggling feels like, head over to www.seethesigns.ca/quiz/ and answer the ten quick questions to check!

June is Canadian Men’s Health Month. Take a moment to check in with the men in your life.

Talking about su***de can be scary. If you’re worried about a loved one, it’s the most important thing you can do. Changes in someone’s mental wellness, withdrawing from others and increased isolation can all be signs that someone may be struggling.

If you notice your family member, friend, or coworker is acting differently, talk to them. You don’t need to have all the answers; lend a listening ear, or offer help finding further support.

Help is available 24/7 by calling 211. If you are in crisis, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department.

05/14/2026

Feeling overwhelmed when someone is in crisis and not sure how to help? Have you always wanted to take an in-person course like Community Helpers or ASIST but haven't had the time?

Check out the new ONLINE Psychological First Aid course offered for a low cost through the Town of Banff! This course offers great building blocks for learning how to help folks in crisis and can be self-paced to fit around your busy schedule.

05/14/2026

Wildfire season can bring stress, uncertainty, and anxiety, especially when other Alberta communities are already facing evacuations, smoke, or the fear of losing homes and safe spaces. Preparing ahead of time can help reduce panic and create a greater sense of control during difficult moments.

A few ways to prepare:
🔥 Create an emergency kit and evacuation plan
🔥 Keep important documents and medications accessible
🔥 Stay connected with family, neighbours, and community supports like www.seethesigns.ca

Wildfire season impacts all of us differently. For some, it’s happening right now. For others, it brings back difficult memories or adds stress while supporting loved ones. If you’re feeling it, reach out. Support is here when you need it.

Resources & services are available to help you cope with health care needs & stress, plus important contacts & emergency preparedness tips. Visit https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/news/page14070.aspx or call 211. You are not alone.

05/13/2026

Housing affects more than where we live: it impacts our mental health, sense of belonging, stress levels, and ability to stay connected to our community. In the Bow Valley, we know that housing challenges can lead to anxiety, burnout, isolation, and people being forced to leave our community.

If you have experienced any of these things, share your experiences and feedback in the survey linked below. This anonymous survey will provide local decision makers with data that can improve the future of housing in Bow Valley.

05/12/2026

Even though Bow Valley Mental Health and Addiction Week has wrapped up, many of the supports, services, and resources are available all year round ❤️

Remember, whatever you're feeling is perfectly normal, but if it feels like you're struggling there are places and people who can help! www.seethesigns.ca is a hub for all of the Bow Valley's support services for mental health and wellbeing. On the site you can find information on groups like Frankie D’s Donuts that provide connection points for mental health (and donuts!) many times throughout the year 🍩

05/06/2026

Are you looking to find more information about local mental health supports? Connect with community organizations offering free or low-cost programs that support our 6 pillars of wellbeing? Or just grab some free food and drink?

Visit the Wellness Market, tomorrow, at the Bison Courtyard in Banff as part of Bow Valley Mental Health and Addiction Week! It looks like it will be a beautiful day to connect with the community ☀

04/21/2026

What kind of information can you find on www.seethesigns.ca?

Community services that help with healthy foods🍎, recreation 🤸‍♀️, social connections 👫, and affordability 🤑
How to improve your mental health 🧠
Places to call or visit to talk to someone about mental health ☎️

And the best part? The website is available in 8 languages!