Photo VIA Refuge Therapy Website
It is now time for our daily look at Canadian Mental Health Week, presented by: Experience Camping!
As Canadians recognize Mental Health Week, one local therapist is sharing why talking about mental health is so important, especially in rural communities.
Tom Roes, owner of Refuge Therapy and a registered social worker, says Mental Health Week is a chance to raise awareness about the mental health struggles many people face.
Roes says mental health still carries stigma, especially in smaller communities.
Roes says that talking about men’s mental health is more important than ever, especially in rural areas. Growing up on a dairy farm in Perth County, Rose knows firsthand how men are often taught to hide their emotions.
Roes believes that this silence around emotions can lead to bigger problems later in life. He says it’s time to break the old habit of keeping mental health struggles private.
Roes has seen attitudes slowly start to change as younger people are talking more about their mental health.
Through his practice, Rose offers one-on-one therapy for children, teens, adults, families, and couples. He also has special experience working with adopted individuals and families who have grown through adoption.
His message to anyone struggling in silence is simple.
Mental Health Week runs from May 5th to May 9th, and Roes hopes the conversation will continue long after.
Written by: K. Milhomens