Laughing together online for Mental Illness Awareness Week

In a year filled with virtual events, we’re excited that many of this year’s Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW) events have moved online.

From October 5-10, 2020, groups across the country are hosting virtual performances with a focus on mental health.

Canadian comedy legend Mary Walsh is back as host for the 2020 Canadian North Arctic Comedy Festival

We’re proud once again to lend support for the Canadian North Arctic Comedy Festival. This year’s event features live shows in Iqaluit, NU, and an online comedy presentation for everyone over Facebook.  Funds raised from the festival will support the Kamatsiaqtut Nunavut Helpline.

Even though we can’t all be together in one place, events like this can allow us to laugh together in a virtual way.

After all – laughter is a great way to make it easier to talk about mental health.>

At Northwestel, we work to build stronger communities by investing in mental health initiatives.  One of the ways we do that is by joining with mental health organizations every year to recognize Mental Illness Awareness Week in the North.

We work with partners like the Canadian Mental Health Association – Yukon, the Stanton Territorial Hospital, and the Embrace Life Council.  These groups offer support to northerners who are dealing with mental health issues.  In 2020, Northwestel is contributing more than $200,000 in support of northern mental health organizations.

MIAW is also a reminder to make sure our 500+ northern employees feel supported.  That’s why we provide access to tools and support, so they can address mental health in their daily lives and in the lives of their families.

Canadian mental health expert and top TEDx speaker Mark Henick joined Northwestel staff to share his story of overcoming mental illness struggles and of the resources that helped him persevere

For Northwestel, this week is about mental health in the North.  It’s about talking and listening to those who need help.  Together, we can support each other and make sure no voice goes unheard.