In Canada, October is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month and the Champlain Library is supporting the effort of promoting awareness of this illness. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, in any given year, one in five Canadians will personally experience a mental health problem or illness. Poor mental health is not necessarily caused by one thing or one event. It is caused by a complex combination of genetic, biological, personality and environment factors. Mental illness will affect every Canadian directly, or indirectly, at some point in their life.
The Champlain Library has many books relating to this topic, whether it is about grief, anxiety, stress, panic or other triggers of this illness. To find a book in the library on any of these subjects simply search the catalogue at bc-cl.ca and reserve the book of your choice. The website also offers suggestions of books on mental health issues as well as some mental health information resources. It is always advisable to seek out professional help if you or someone you know is dealing with a mental health concern.
Adult Book Bags are also available through the library which include a jigsaw puzzle, two magazines, two books, a DVD, a relaxing music CD, colouring sheets, a notepad to jot down your thoughts and a small canister of Play-doh to help relieve stress. The mental health awareness book bags are available in both English and French and can be reserved by signing into your library account on the website, by emailing [email protected] or by phone at 613-678-2216.
