This May, the (SFMHS) is launching its Rural Minds Matter campaign to raise awareness about mental health in Northern BC’s rural and remote communities. With one in five Canadians expected to face mental health challenges this year, the situation is even more pressing for rural residents, who often avoid seeking help due to stigma. The campaign’s goal is to reduce stigma, increase understanding, and encourage support through peer connections.
Throughout May, the campaign will engage local communities using social media, digital platforms, and media outreach, as well as hosting virtual presentations. In partnership with AgLife and AgSafe BC, SFMHS will hold town hall events in Terrace, Prince George, and Fort St. John to provide resources, share knowledge, and offer peer support training. The initiative is designed to connect people in rural areas with the mental health tools and support they need, promoting community care and resilience.
This campaign builds on the Rural Mental Wellness Toolkit and the success of the Rural Peer Fundamentals Training, creating a sustainable peer support network. By addressing isolation and stigma, Rural Minds Matter aims to empower rural communities to support each other and improve mental health outcomes across Northern BC.
