As the holiday season approaches, many Manitobans endure more than just cold weather — they face isolation, anxiety and depression. A 2022 survey by Felix Health found that one in four Canadians experience a decline in mental health during the holidays, with 39 per cent reporting symptoms of anxiety or depression. A year ago, Mental Health Research Canada reported that 13 per cent of Canadians were experiencing high anxiety, the highest level in two years.
Peer Connections Manitoba is working to change that. Peer support connects individuals with trained peer supporters who have lived through similar experiences and can offer empathy, understanding and a sense of belonging.
If you have staff who are struggling with mental health or substance use challenges, they can access free, confidential peer support by going to peerconnectionsmb.ca.
Sierra Courier has supported Peer Connections Manitoba both on the golf course and now in the business community, helping raise awareness and build momentum for peer-led mental health care across the province.
As one peer supporter shared in Through Their Eyes: The Power of Peer Support, a booklet of testimonials compiled by Peer Connections, “I didn’t need someone to fix me. I needed someone to sit with me in the dark until I could see the light again.”
That’s the heart of peer support — being present, not prescriptive.
Adding to the momentum, Winnipeg-based insurance company Red River Mutual recently launched its “Mental Health Doesn’t Take a Holiday” campaign, matching donations up to $5,000 in December to help expand access to peer-support services. The campaign highlights a critical truth – mental health challenges don’t pause for the holidays so neither should support.
Peer Connections Manitoba continues to show that healing can begin in many ways, including through a simple, meaningful conversation. Peer support can be a first step or a valuable part of a broader mental health care plan, offering timely, compassionate connection during the winter months when many people need it most.
Learn more or donate at: peerconnectionsmb.ca
