People
Bring Back the Summer!
Since 2017, the members of Centennial Place, the mental health clubhouse in Mission, have come up with creative ideas to chase away the January blues.
It’s no secret that January can be a difficult time for many and especially for people who are already struggling with their mental health. The third Monday in January is often referred to as “Blue Monday” because it is said to be the saddest, most depressing day of the year. It is still dark and the weather can be grey and cold. For some people, the happiness of the holidays has worn off and for others, the holidays weren’t happy to begin with. It can be a very challenging time of year.
“That’s why it is so important to have something positive to focus on in January,” says Krystina Hetherington, the manager of Centennial Place. “Our members take this very seriously!”
It is so important to clubhouse members that they don’t just focus on Blue Monday, they focus on the entire week. They brainstorm a theme for the week and then plan something unique for each day.
“This year, our theme is ‘Bring Back Summer’,” Krystina says. “Everyone loves summer time, so we’re doing the kinds of things in January that you’d normally do in July.”
They’ll hit the wave pool at Matsqui Recreational Centre, spend a day listening to summer-inspired tunes, have a BBQ, and do some tie-dye crafts. A young adults games night is being planned with other clubhouses in the area and they’ll close off the week with lunch at the White Rock Pier.
Centennial Place is facilitated by Communitas Supportive Care Society. It is a supportive community offering hope, encouragement, and opportunities to individuals who live with mental health challenges. The clubhouse model gives members a voice in the activities and services offered, emphasizing the belief that all people have the ability and responsibility to manage their mental wellness and live productive and meaningful lives.
“Being part of a community matters,” Krystina says. “And having special events planned like we do for Blue Week gives people something to look forward to, with the people you like to hang out with.”
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