FAQs

Our courses offer more structured learning experiences than a typical group program. They’re designed with input from qualified and experienced educators based on contemporary learning theory. Each course has clear learning outcomes and activities to explore and build knowledge.

Nothing! All courses are free, but you must register before attending.

Our courses are friendly, informative, engaging and enjoyable to help students on their recovery journey. Two trainers co-facilitate each course – one an expert by education, working in their field of expertise; the other an expert by experience, those who have personal experience who will share their experience as part of the course.

None. All of our courses are open to everyone at all levels and at all stages of recovery. All we require is an open mind and a willingness to participate.

The courses are held at the 8530 Manning Avenue Unit #111 Fort McMurray, AB T9H 5G2.

Anyone aged 16+ affected by mental health or addiction who want to explore the recovery journey and their own wellness. Those who are supporting a family or friend, as well as people working in the mental health field are welcome to attend. No referral is needed.

If you need help registering, please contact 780-743-1053 or email us at wellness@woodbuffalo.cmha.ab.ca.

This workshop is designed to help participants develop constructive coping and communication skills to benefit themselves both individually and in their interactions with others. Even if you are not angry in a situation, the anger of others can be contagious. Dealing with angry people on their terms is almost always frustrating and ineffective for all parties involved. By developing the skills to manage your own anger and to effectively communicate with angry individuals, you can create a calmer, less hostile environment that will ultimately make everyone’s life easier.

Suicide affects us all. More than 3,500 Canadians kill themselves each year, and Alberta has the highest among the highest suicide rates across Canada. Anyone can be at risk, but suicide can be prevented through the actions of prepared caregivers. Just as ‘CPR’ skills make physical first aid possible, training in suicide intervention develops the skills used in suicide first aid. ASIST is a two-day interactive and practice dominated course designed to help caregivers recognize risk and learn how to prevent immediate risk of suicide. This program is facilitated by the Centre for Suicide Prevention.

Did you know your ASIST certification is good for three years? Are you close to expiring? Take Tune Up, a half day workshop to extend certification for another two years.

The Education program works to promote mental health through interactive learning sessions presented to youth and adult audiences by qualified educators, using evidence-based knowledge, and top quality teaching practices. A variety of session topics, as well as more advanced skill and resiliency building courses are offered.

Most mental disorders develop gradually. The early signs and symptoms of developing mental health problems will be different from the more established clinical profiles which are reflected later in life. The social, educational and family environments in which mental disorders occur in young people are also different later in life. Therefor, the information provided in this course is designed to be sensitive to the unique aspects of mental health problems in young people. It is meant to assist educational professionals, health providers, parents and other adults in the identification of mental health problems and appropriate first aid intervention strategies. Early identification can help improve the lives of young people across Canada.

Canada has an aging population. As of July 1, 2015, there were more people aged 65 years and older in Canada than children under the age of 15 years. The likelihood of experiencing a mental health problem or illness is a given year increases as of age 69 and currently, men aged 80 and older have the highest suicide rates in Canada. MHFA Seniors is an adaptation of the MHFA Basic course that is intended to increase the capacity of seniors, families (informal caregivers), friends, staff in care settings and communities to promote mental health in seniors, prevent mental illness and suicide wherever possible in seniors and intervene early when problems first emerge.

Our Peer Support service provides the opportunity for anyone, individual, family member, friend or professional – looking for a connection with someone who understands what it’s like to experience a mental health or substance use concern, the chance to speak with someone with lived personal experience.

Using an educational-based approach, Recovery College offers courses to help people recognize and develop their own resourcefulness and awareness in order to support themselves or their loved one on their recovery journey. Everyone—family, friends, caregivers, professionals and the general public—are welcome to attend our free courses supporting recovery and wellbeing. All of our courses are interactive, and offer positive learning experiences and emphasize hope, control and opportunity.

SafeTALK is a help-day course that prepared anyone over the age of 16, regardless of prior experience or training, to become a suicide-alert helper. Most people with thoughts of suicide don’t truly want to die, but are struggling with the pain in their lives. Through their words and actions, they invite help to stay alive. SafeTALK-trained helpers can recognize these invitations and take action by connecting them with life-saving intervention resources, as caregivers trained in ASIST.

Suicidal behaviour in children age 12 or younger is a subject of growing concern for those who work with children. Suicidal thoughts and attempts in children have sometimes been overlooked, denied or ignored. Tattered Teddies is an interactive half-day workshop which examines warning signs in a child and explores intervention strategies through stories and case studies. This workshop provides information and offers practical approaches for those working with children who are age 12 or younger and who may be at risk of suicide. Participants can include but not limited to: parents and caregivers; family and friends; natural helpers and advisors; educators and ministers; health practitioners; justice, law enforcement, emergency workers, and community volunteers.