SEHU urges residents to ‘unmask mental health’ during awareness week

As Mental Health Week unfolds across Canada, the South East Health Unit (SEHU) is encouraging residents to “Unmask Mental Health” and join the growing conversation about promoting well-being and emotional resilience in these uncertain times.

Running this week from May 5 to 11, 2025, this year’s theme is meant to draw attention to how many people hide their suffering behind a smile, despite facing debilitating stress, sadness, anxiety or isolation. According to a press release from SEHU, the campaign calls for open, honest conversations to help reduce stigma and build more supportive communities. 

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, one in five Canadians who reportedly needed help with their mental health didn’t seek it out due to discomfort or fear of judgment. 

“Mental health isn’t just about emotions — it’s shaped by culture, relationships, and social justice,” the SEHU said in a press release on Monday, May 5, 2025. “This week is about creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and accepted.”

In their release, the health unit offers general tips for supporting mental well-being, including prioritizing self-care, maintaining social and cultural connections, reflecting on theur social media usage, and speaking openly about mental health with friends, family and co-workers. 

Free local and virtual mental health services are available to residents of Lanark, Leeds and Grenville, with no referral required. For more information, visit healthunit.org – Mental Wellbeing or call 1-800-660-5853.

Residents can also email contact@healthunit.org or connect with @LGLHealthUnit on social media.