Alberta government supporting youth mental wellness – CentralAlbertaOnline.com

Alberta’s government is supporting community organizations that provide innovative programming to help improve the mental health and well-being of young Albertans.

Every young Albertan should be confident that help is available when they need it.

Youth at risk of mental health challenges can benefit significantly from programs that focus on building resiliency, mental wellness and social connection, such as those offered through the Youth Suicide Prevention Grant Program.

The Alberta government has invested an additional $1 million into Youth Suicide Prevention Grants, for a total of $4 million over 2024-26.

This means more organizations have received grant funding, increasing access to programming for youth across the province.

So far, more than 2,100 youth have been supported through programs that provide safe spaces to develop life skills and build long-term resilience.

Initiatives include after-school programs, cultural camps and events, and educational workshops.

“When someone is struggling, we want them to know there is help available. Suicide prevention is a priority for our government, which is why I am grateful for our cross-ministry approach to better mental health and well-being for Alberta children and youth,” said Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction.

Programs funded through the Youth Suicide Prevention Grant Program offer unique supports for diverse communities.

The government’s ongoing recognition of the importance of youth suicide prevention is encouraging—suicide prevention is long-term work.

Support from these grants contributes to education efforts led by the Canadian Mental Health Association Alberta and the Centre for Suicide Prevention, including the co-creation of the guide Community-led Life Promotion Plans for Indigenous Youth and Communities.

The Alberta government is recognizing Mental Health Week, May 5–11, and remains committed to expanding access to supports and services for young people facing mental health and addiction challenges.

This includes investments to increase access to supports in schools and in the community, support youth-focused online and telephone resources, and ensure mental health and addiction services are available through Recovery Alberta.

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