The public is invited to a mental health and wellness open house to learn about everything ranging from programs for families and mental health counselling to gambling support and post-secondary courses for wellness.

The fifth That Wellness Thing event is on Wednesday, March 6, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the 91原创 Education Centre, 21405A 56th Ave. (beside 91原创 Secondary School).

鈥淲e started the event in 2018, and I have been part of it ever since then. #thatwellnessthing is really a team effort,鈥� said Amanda Rawle, the humanities department head at the 91原创 Education Centre. 鈥淥ur whole school comes together to help make it happen. Several staff help with planning the event and our cooking class provides the refreshments. We also have a number of staff and students who volunteer on the night of the event, in addition to all of our incredible community partners who come out to join us each year.

A host of local agencies and organizations are involved, including Encompass Support Services Society, Fraser Health, 91原创 Hospice Society, 91原创 Education Centre, Mission Community Services, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, EPI (Early Psychosis Intervention), Pacific Community Resources Society, FamilySmart, Gambling Support, Willows Family Life Centre, University of the Fraser Valley, FunFunction, and WorkBC.

鈥淲e have had a very positive response from everyone,鈥� Rawle said about feedback from previous events. 鈥淧eople who have come in previous years have said that they find it really helpful being able to access so much information in one place at one time. The event is a great opportunity for making new connections in the community.鈥�

Rawle said people at last year鈥檚 event were asked to name their favourite part of the event and the replies includes talking to the representatives of the various agencies and programs, learning what鈥檚 available locally.

There are various presentations and information tables on topics such as substance use resources, healthy living, counselling, family support, and employment. There is also an opportunity to try yoga. There are four 25-minute sessions, but they fill up quickly. There are also refreshments and door prizes.

鈥淭he event is intended to be very flexible so people can come and learn about a variety of programs and services that are all free or low cost,鈥� she explained.

In addition to the information tables this year, Encompass Support Services Society (ESSS) staff will be hosting a workshop about emotional regulation and practical coping skills and Mission Community Skills Centre (MCSC) will be sharing about their Foods Skills BC program for newcomers.鈥�

The free event is geared to those 16 and older, and no advance registration is required.

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