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'Shelter in the storm' for people facing mental health challenges

Story & Photo by Melanie Veriotes

CALGARY ¡ª People living with mental health and addictions challenges have many options for support in the community, but for one client, Devin, his ¡°shelter in the storm¡± has been the Carnat Centre.

¡°The Carnat Centre is a unique program that provides support to clients experiencing more severe to complex addictions and mental health issues,¡± says Tracey Labbie, manager of Community Addictions and Mental Health, NE Campus.

¡°We have a really strong peer-support component and multidisciplinary team who work with clients to promote facets of independence that they can use in their recovery journey.¡±

With a bright environment ¡ª and a wall with the word ¡°hope¡± splashed across it ¡ª clients are welcomed to a place where they can express themselves individually through art or in a group setting through discussions.

During the pandemic, the centre offered peer-support groups via Zoom, but has recently resumed in-person sessions.

As one example, the centre brings clients together for a psychiatrist-led group discussion on a variety of current topics that allows for anyone to contribute and benefit from social interaction and peer support. A recent discussion ranged from how to process news about the war in Ukraine to thoughts on climate change, and even predictions on the NHL hockey playoffs.

Peer-support worker Yvonne Benson says: ¡°We connect on that peer-to-peer level and come together and build a community that complements the clinical supports that are offered here at the Carnat Centre.¡±

Benson, a centre employee for four years, adds: ¡°We¡¯re able to really connect with individuals here and support so many diverse needs.¡±

When asked why people should come to the Carnat Centre, participant Suzanne gives a ringing endorsement: ¡°It¡¯s a great place to be. People are friendly ¡ª and you meet a lot of friends. The staff are great here and very supportive. They help you with your needs.¡±

Learn more about the and its peer-support programs.