On the Cusp of Forging a New Era in Mental Health Together

Feb 8th, 2025

Picture this: a world where mental health care is not just a service but a shared journey. A place where communities rally together, stories of lived experience shape the way forward, and recovery is a collective triumph, not an isolated struggle.

 At CMHA Edmonton, we believe that future isn’t just a dream—it’s right in front of us. We are standing on the brink of an extraordinary transformation, an evolutionary adventure where we leave behind outdated stigmas and siloed approaches to mental health and step boldly into a new era defined by connection, collaboration, and community.

It’s an exciting time to be part of this movement. For over a century, CMHA has quietly worked behind the scenes, building the foundations for a brighter future. From offering life-saving support through our Distress Line to empowering individuals to lead through Peer College, we’ve been there—often invisible, always impactful. We’ve worked tirelessly as a backbone for other organizations, strengthening the broader mental health ecosystem while remaining humble in the shadows. But now, it’s time to step into the light.

We’re inviting you to join us as we set out on this adventure together.

A New Narrative: Lived Experience at the Helm

The future of mental health isn’t about professionals dictating a single path to recovery—it’s about listening. It’s about amplifying the voices of those with lived experience with a mental health challenge, and letting their stories guide the way. Whether it’s someone who has navigated the storm of depression, overcome addiction, or found resilience after a crisis, their insights hold the key to reshaping how we think about mental health and recovery.

That’s why CMHA Edmonton is committed to putting lived experience at the forefront. Through initiatives like Peer College, we’re equipping individuals with tools to share their wisdom and mentor others. By gathering stories through our 2025 Story Drive, we’re creating a tapestry of experiences that will challenge biases, shatter stigma, and inspire hope.

This is a journey we cannot take alone. It’s a partnership—a collaboration—with every community member, organization, and group who shares our vision for a more compassionate Edmonton.

Building a Brighter Future, Together

We see ourselves as a hub of possibility, a place where ideas and innovation converge to create something extraordinary. Already, we’re forging relationships with community groups, learning from their strengths, and sharing our expertise. Together, we’re laying the groundwork for a network of support that spans Edmonton and beyond—a network where every person feels seen, heard, and valued.

Imagine what mental health care could look like in this new era:

• A world where reaching out for help is celebrated, not stigmatized.
• A world where mental health services are accessible to everyone, no matter their background or circumstance.
• A world where communities rally around their members, creating safe spaces for healing and growth.

That world starts here, with us, and with you.

From Shadows to Spotlight

For decades, CMHA Edmonton has been a quiet champion, providing unwavering support while letting others take the spotlight. But this moment demands something different. We’re ready to take a more visible role, to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the community and declare our commitment to building a brighter, healthier future.

We’re not just a resource—we’re a partner, a connector, and a leader in this shared journey. Together, we can reimagine what mental health care and recovery look like. We can create a future where no one feels alone, and every voice matters.

Your Role in This Adventure

This is your call to action. As we prepare to launch this new chapter, we need your voice, your passion, and your story. The past is behind us, but the future is wide open, waiting to be shaped by the collective efforts of our community.

Will you join us? Share your story. Volunteer. Partner with us to bring this vision to life. Together, we can redefine mental health care and make Edmonton a shining example of what’s possible when we come together with purpose and determination.

The adventure begins now. Are you ready?