AHS Marks Mental Health Week with Activities in Lakeland

Alberta Health Services has declared this week to be Mental Health Week and they have organized a slew of activities around the Lakeland to mark it.

“Research has shown outdoor activities can improve mental wellness; these activities can include gardening, playing outdoor sports, walking and running, or just sitting and enjoying the scenery,” a press released from AHS reads. “Positive effects include improved mood and energy; less negativity and worry; lower blood pressure; faster recovery from stressful events; increased creativity; improved cognitive development in children; and an overall calming effect.”

A list of local goings on is below:

Cold Lake, St. Paul

• A display with mental health information, including a list of local mental health resources, will be visiting local libraries.

Bonnyville

• A display with mental health information, including a list of local mental health resources, will be visiting local libraries.
• A HeartMath workshop on May 3 teaches stress-reduction tools and techniques, including breathing and mindfulness exercises. The workshop runs from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Provincial Building, #210 4902 50 Ave. Call 780-826-2150 to register. 

Lac La Biche

• An educational display highlighting mental health support services available in the region will be set up at the Lac La Biche Public Library, 10307 100 St.

Smoky Lake

• A display with mental health information, including a list of local mental health resources, will be visiting local libraries.
• A HeartMath workshop on May 12 teaches stress-reduction tools and techniques, including breathing and mindfulness exercises. The workshop runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Smoky Lake County Office, 4612 MacDougall Drive. Call 780-636-2024 to register