Ottawa 67’s and CMHA Ottawa team up to raise awareness about mental health during home game

 Ottawa – Feb. 17, 2016 – The Ottawa 67’s and the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Branch are teaming up again to raise awareness about the importance of mental health during an upcoming 67’s home game.

The Ottawa 67’s game on Sat. Feb. 20, 1:00 p.m. at the Arena at TD Place will feature:

• CMHA-run kiosks so fans can learn more about mental health
• New brochures for coaches, parents and players on suicide prevention
• Videos featuring 67’s players talking about the importance of mental health
• Public address announcements about mental health

The awareness campaign is part of the ongoing commitment by the 67’s and CMHA Ottawa to implement Talk Today. Announced in October 2014, Talk Today is a partnership between the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and CHMA Ontario. It provides mental health support to players and raises awareness about mental health and suicide throughout OHL communities.

A key piece of the Talk Today program has been to educate players about mental health and suicide prevention. Every OHL team received mental health training specific to suicide awareness last season and new players were trained this fall. Each team is also now linked to a CMHA Mental Health Coach, who provides support and mental health resources to individuals in need.

“We’re excited to be working with the 67’s to increase public awareness and promote mental health in the community,” said Tim Simboli, Executive Director of CMHA Ottawa.

“The 67’s coaches and players are leaders in our community and players are seen as excellent role models.

“By hosting the Talk Today game day, the 67’s are helping to eliminate the stigma and discrimination too often associated with mental health issues.”

“Kids have a lot of pressures in their lives and it’s not always easy to deal with them,” said Jeff Brown, the 67’s head coach and general manager.  “The Talk Today initiative lets them know that they’re not alone … lots of their friends and family members are also feeling the pressure … and it’s OK and helpful to talk about it.  We’re very thankful to CMHA for giving us the opportunity to help get that message out.”

Tickets for the game are still available, starting from $17 (adults) at http://ottawa67s.com/single-game-tickets

Read more about Talk Today.

Media Contacts:

Tim Simboli , Executive Director
CMHA Ottawa
[email protected]

Graeme Ivory, Director, Communications and Content
Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group
[email protected]