Marguerite Riel Centre is set to host mental health gathering. (File Photo/northeastNOW Staff)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Helping Others

Melfort set to host mental health gathering for men

Sep 28, 2023 | 1:00 PM

A mental health gathering is happening in Melfort for men across the northeast.

Four men will be taking the stage at the Marguerite Riel Centre on Friday where they’ll share their struggles and journies in hopes of encouraging others to do the same.

One of the speakers is Prince Albert’s Cody Demerais. He told northeastNOW he plans on sharing how he went from abusing alcohol and drugs to cope with his own struggles to being a mental health advocate.

“It’s something I love doing and I do believe it makes a difference. I don’t go and speak to a room of 200 thinking everyone will take something out of it, but I do go into a room knowing that at least one person can have something they can take for the rest of their day,” he said.

Demerais added he’s happy that this event is focused on men since they’re less likely to ask for help. According to the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation, roughly one million men struggle with their mental health each year but only about 30 per cent of people using available services are men.

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“I know there are lots of people out there who sometimes think that the things going on in their world are only there’s to hold on to by themselves,” said Demerais.

He noted that special events for women are also needed as mental health doesn’t discriminate regarding gender.

The other three men planning to speak are Allan Kehler, an International Keynote Speaker; J.R. Larose, a retired CFL player; and Mike Lang, a registered social worker with Prairie Hope Wellness in Melfort.

The event is free with anyone interested asked to register ahead of time. They can do so by calling 306-752-4950 or emailing perrymrc@outlook.com.

It takes place on Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow