Y Mind Mental Wellness Program
Introducing Y Mind
Everyone experiences worry and anxiety. The key is to learn how to manage uncomfortable emotions, so they don’t get in the way of doing things you care about.
Y Mind offers support for those who are experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or stress. Y Mind participants learn evidence-based coping skills based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness and self-compassion, and connect with peers who are experiencing similar thoughts and feelings. Programs are offered online and in-person and there is no cost to participate.
August 28, 2023
YMCA Canada and Canadian indie pop band Walk off the Earth are excited to release a modern take on the Y.M.C.A. anthem to raise awareness of expanded access to the free YMCA youth mental health program, Y Mind.
Originally released in 1978, the hit song has brought crowds to the dance floor, with an enduring legacy internationally. The reimagined cover of the classic party anthem, performed in a more soulful and sincere tone, brings new light to the original lyrics through a mental health lens as the YMCA aims to highlight today’s need for community and open dialogue surrounding mental health. Alongside the new musical arrangement, Walk off the Earth has also released an accompanying full-length music video now available on YouTube.
“We’ve seen how music is so connected to emotions – for us and our fans – so we were honoured to take on the challenge of reinventing such an iconic song and give new meaning to its enduring lyrics,” says Sarah Blackwood, lead singer of Walk off the Earth. “When we took a look at the original lyrics, it was staggering how a message about the YMCA from 45 years ago is just as relevant and pointed today - but now we’re sharing that message with a focus on mental health tied to Y Mind.”
This collaboration aims to bring awareness to a new era the YMCA of the National Capital Region hopes to usher in, as 24 YMCAs across the country have expanded their broad range of programming to include free mental health services through Y Mind, serving the changing needs of Canadian communities.
The Y Mind program comes at a time when young people’s stress and anxiety levels remain at an all-time high. According to a survey conducted in 2023 by Deloitte, close to half of Gen Zs (46%) and four in 10 Millennials (39%) report feeling stressed or anxious all or most of the time. Guided by qualified mental healthcare professionals, participants in the Y Mind program have reported reduced anxiety, improved well-being, and reduced feelings of isolation.
Y Mind Teen | For ages 13Y-17Y
Y Mind Teen is a free seven-week mental wellness program delivered in-person and online by trained professionals from the national Capital Region. This program supports teens ages 13Y to 17Y who are experiencing symptoms of mild-to-moderate anxiety or stress. Participants learn and practice evidence-based strategies to help manage anxiety.
Y Mind Teen gives teens the chance to connect with peers who are experiencing similar thoughts and feelings. All participants receive a free book and workbook.
Our next Y Mind Teen program begins:
- Ongoing registration available. Next 7-week in-person session begins September 28, 2023 at Willow Wellness in the Richmond community.
To register or request more information, please fill out the contact form at the bottom of this page.
Y Mind Youth | For ages 18Y-30Y
Y Mind Youth is a free seven-week mental wellness program delivered in-person and online by trained professionals from the National Capital Region. Anxiety can impact our lives by preventing us from doing what we want or need to do. It can also be an isolating experience.
This free program brings young people who have similar thoughts and feelings together. Participants learn evidence-based skills and report feeling reduced anxiety, increased well-being and feeling less alone following the program. All participants receive a free book and workbook.
Our next Y Mind Youth programs begins:
- Ongoing registration available. Next 7-week session begins September 27, 2023.
To register or request more information, please fill out the contact form at the bottom of this page.
Registration & Questions
Ready to learn more? Please fill out the form below:
We are also available directly by email: ymind@ymcaottawa.ca
The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the Public Health Agency of Canada