Enhanced new funding for programs aimed at supporting the mental health and well-being of Alberta’s young people is money well spent.
The province announced last week that it will be providing an additional $1 million this year to support youth suicide prevention grants, bringing the total support for 2024-26 to $4 million.
The public funding will be used by local organizations that provide educational workshops, after-school programs, cultural camps, and other services for young people, helping build resiliency, mental wellness and social connections, say officials.
More than 2,000 young Albertans have already made use of programs funded through the grants.
Searle Turton, minister of Children and Family Services, said, “Supporting innovative mental health programs for youth is not only vital to improving individual well-being, but also strengthens families, schools and communities.”
Dan Williams, minister of Mental Health and Addictions, added, “When someone is struggling, we want them to know there is help available.”
Both ministers commended the many community organizations and volunteers across the province that are making daily efforts to help and support young people facing mental health challenges.
Unfortunately, the pressures on young people have, if anything, continued to increase in recent years, creating a real and present need for supports of all kinds, both in urban and rural areas.
With many issues facing adult Albertans these days – including the Smith government’s ongoing battles with the federal government, renewed talk of possible Alberta separation, and the ever-present cost of living crisis – it’s heartening to see that public resources continue to be directed and focused on supporting youth mental health.
In the end, do the many ‘adult’ issues currently facing the province really mean much if young people are not given every possible chance and opportunity to grow up healthy and safe, including when it comes to mental wellness?
The health and well-being of Alberta’s young people is vital to the current and long-term success of the community-at-large. As such, this new enhanced funding is both welcome and needed.
Dan Singleton is an editor with the Albertan.
