On World Mental Health Day, Oct. 10, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Manitoba and the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) are calling on Manitobans to join a province-wide “Power Play for Mental Health” in support of Talk Today—a program that has been saving lives across sports communities for a decade. With the support of Manitoba Blue Cross, which will donate $1 for every MJHL goal scored this season, every game becomes a chance to make mental health part of the playbook.
For 10 years, Talk Today has trained coaches, supported players, and inspired conversations that save lives. In Manitoba, suicide remains the leading cause of death for youth ages 10-17, a stark reminder of what is at stake and why conversations and timely support matter.
“Hockey teaches teamwork, courage, and looking out for the person next to you,” said Devin Vermette, Manager of Recovery College and Educational Supports, CMHA Manitoba and Winnipeg. “Talk Today brings those values off the ice by giving players, coaches, and their communities the skills to recognize when someone is struggling and to have the confidence to start a life-saving conversation.”
How Manitobans can help:
- Donate today to expand Talk Today’s training and supports across Manitoba.
- Share the message that open, safe conversations save lives. On your team, in your school, and at home.
- Cheer on the MJHL knowing that every goal scored this season helps grow the movement.
Together, let’s celebrate #GoalsBeyondTheGame and have more conversations, more champions, and more lives saved.
About CMHA Across Manitoba
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Manitoba and Winnipeg is part of a national federated charity that provides advocacy and services that aim to promote mental health, help prevent mental health and substance use health problems, support recovery and resilience and enable all Canadians to flourish and thrive.
About the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL)
The Manitoba Junior Hockey League is one of ten Junior ‘A’ Hockey Leagues in Canada and is a proud member of the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL). The CJHL is an association of nine Junior ‘A’ leagues in Canada. The MJHL exists to provide the best hockey development opportunities for players.
About Manitoba Blue Cross
Manitoba Blue Cross is a homegrown, Manitoba-based health benefits provider with coverage that is among the best in the industry. As a not-for-profit organization, they are committed to improving the health and well-being of Manitobans.
Media Contact:
Kristen Lucyshyn
Communications and Marketing Lead, CMHA Manitoba and Winnipeg
Phone: 204.982.6104
Email: klucyshyn@cmhawpg.mb.ca