Good afternoon, Fort McMurray Christian School. Today I wanted to talk to you about an important topic that affects many people, including some of us in this school - Mental Health. Mental health is an important part of our overall well-being, and it's something that we should take seriously. Unfortunately, many young people in Canada experience mental health issues, and it's important that we all do our part to help raise awareness and support those who may be struggling.

One way to do this is by participating in an event called Bell Let's Talk Day. This event is held today and encourages people to talk about mental health and participate in various activities, such as making phone calls, sending text messages, and having meaningful conversations with family and friends. We want to check in with those around us and see how they are doing beyond the normal, how are ya?

By participating in this event, we can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and raise funds for organisations that provide support and resources for those affected by mental health issues. We can also take the opportunity to have open and honest conversations about mental health and check in on our friends and loved ones. We can listen and we can pray together.

The Bible addresses mental health in various passages, but it doesn't use the term "mental health" specifically. However, the Bible does discuss topics related to mental health, such as stress, anxiety, and depression. For example, in Psalm 34:17-18, it says "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." This passage states that God is a source of comfort and support for those who are struggling with mental health issues.

Additionally, in Isaiah 41:10, it says "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." This passage shows us that God will help and support those who are struggling with fear and anxiety.

It's also important to note that the Bible teaches that all people are created in the image of God, and that every life has value and worth. This means that anyone who is struggling with mental health issues should be treated with compassion, respect, and understanding.

Let me leave you with this final verse from Romans 8:38-39

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Here’s The Good News: Absolutely nothing can change or affect the love that God has for us. It is steadfast.

So, let's all do our part to support mental health, and remember to talk about it, it's important and it's ok to do so. And let's participate in the Bell Let's Talk Day and make a difference in a friend’s or fellow classmate’s life together.