May 2, 2011 - mindyourmind’s iGetReal.ca is a youth driven project focused on the importance of helping a friend who is struggling with a mental health problem.  Eight youth and young adults between the ages of 16-24 were recruited from across Ontario to drive the development of a mental health promotion campaign directed at their peers. “The iGetReal campaign aims to help young people understand that the simple act of talking to a friend can really affect everyone in a positive way.  We want youth to know that helping a friend doesn’t have to be hard” says 17 year old participant, Trina from Sarnia, Ontario.

iGetReal participant Alicia, 21 from Waterloo says “Friends can help break the sense of isolation that is often felt when you’re struggling with a mental health problem.” Over the course of 8 weeks, iGetReal participants discussed issues impacting young people and brainstormed ways to reach out to them. With the help of /A\ Channel, Echidna Solutions Corp., Miko Productions and other key in-kind contributors, iGetReal participants generated promotional materials that will be circulated to youth all across Canada.

“This project is an example of how Youth and Adult Partnerships can generate great outcomes. We are delighted to have had an opportunity to work with a group of young people who were so committed to bringing about change.  mindyourmind, our partners and youth worked together on this project to create a perfect storm of ideas.” says Maria Luisa Contursi, Program Director, mindyourmind.

Their efforts have resulted in the development of two promotional materials, a poster and a Public Service Announcement that will air during National Mental Health Week, May 1-7, 2011.

For more information, please contact us.

This project was sponsored by /A\ Channel, Dominoes Pizza, Echidna, Libro Financial Group, Miko., Pattison Outdoor Advertising and Start Communication.