Feds announce $200k investment in youth mental health at Cambridge YMCA

Cambridge MP Bryan May announced an investment of $165,290, with an additional $50,000 through centralized resources and supports, for young people's mental health on Friday while at the Cambridge YMCA.

The funding supports the expansion of YMCA of Three Rivers' mental wellness programs

Young people have been disproportionally impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with social isolation, virtual learning challenges, job insecurity, and financial hardship worsening their mental health and well-being.

“Young people have been leaders in the fight for better mental health in this country. We stand with the YMCA as they expand their work to bring mindfulness, resources, and evidence-based tools to the forefront of their youth mental wellness programming. We are proud to support their efforts in promoting mental wellness and creating a better tomorrow,” May said in a press release.

The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health.

The funding will support the scaling up and expansion of the organization's “Y Mind” and “Mind Medicine” evidence-based, youth-informed, early intervention programs across Canada.

“Through the Public Health Agency of Canada’s $6.9 million investment through Y Canada, we’re pleased to be able to offer the program at the YMCA of Three Rivers, including Guelph-Wellington, Stratford Perth, and Waterloo Region. Providing safe spaces for teens and youth to discuss mental health and well-being, as well as learn positive coping strategies, in our efforts of helping make our diverse communities healthier and more vibrant,” said Mike Ennis CEO, YMCA of Three Rivers.

The programs are intended for young people 13 to 30 years of age who are experiencing mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression, and aim to support the development of effective coping skills and improvements to participant's overall well-being.

Y Mind introduces them to evidence-based tools and connects them with peers and experienced professionals. Mind Medicine, an adapted version of Y Mind, has been developed specifically for Indigenous young people, and will be implemented in partnership with Indigenous-serving organizations and communities.

This announcement is part of a $100 million investment provided in the 2021 federal budget to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.