Energize Don’t Hide Highlight: David A.

David has been an active part of our Energize Don’t Hide Challenge not only as an individual participant, but as a team member of Imperial Oil’s Kearl One team.

“After some tough news earlier this year, I was really looking for an opportunity to expand my conversations with the friends and family; when my workplace started a team to participate in this challenge, it proved to be just the jump off point I needed.”

During this challenge, David has demonstrated and proven how physical health can be the true catalyst of nurturing your mental health to his family, friends, and co-workers by using his social media platform to share his physical activity progress.

“I have scheduled walks with friends and coworkers, and taken the opportunity to talk about the [Energize Don’t Hide] challenge and some of their experiences with mental health. The last few weeks I have started participating in evening group walks at work and have been actively trying to encourage others to join.”

Surpassing his financial goal several times, and very close to reaching his goal of completing 3,300 minutes of activity during our Energize Don’t Hide Challenge, David continues to share his story to invite others to do the same as a way to break the stigma and let others know that he is there to listen.

“Mental health is important to me as I have felt the impact of some of the struggles I have faced with my own mental health in my life. I am aware how issues can silently creep in and cause some real distress. I have seen people in my life, who I love, face some very challenging mental health events. In some cases, these have been life changing situations that haven’t had the endings that I would hope for someone I care about.”

To donate to David, please visit their Energize Don’t Hide team page.

Our Peer Support program services can be accessed over the phone at 403-297-1402 or through email at peer@cmha.calgary.ab.ca. We have teamed up with other Calgary agencies to help Calgarians quickly and easily access various counselling and social supports. Visit www.communityconnectyyc.ca, where you can book online for our Suicide Bereavement and Family Support Counselling, and other supports. If you prefer to still book through us, please phone (403-297-1708), or email (counsellingintake@cmha.calgary.ab.ca)