Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board

During Mental Health Week (May 5–11, 2025), the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board is joining communities and workplaces across Canada to celebrate, protect, and promote mental health.

This year’s theme, "Unmasking Mental Health," encourages us to look beyond the surface and see the whole person.
Living with a mental health or substance use challenge is hard enough; masking these struggles to avoid judgment or discrimination can make it even harder. The heavier the stigma, the heavier the mask becomes — and the more isolated a person may feel.

This Mental Health Week, we are called to embrace honesty and vulnerability, opening the door to deeper connections and the mental health benefits that come with them. By unmasking mental health, we create a ripple effect of courage, compassion, and understanding across our communities.

“As a Catholic community, we are called to walk alongside one another with empathy and love. By embracing honesty and offering compassionate support, we reflect Christ’s call to care for each other,"— Jenny Athanasiou-Malisa, Manager of Social Work Services

This message is especially meaningful as Mental Health Week coincides with Catholic Education Week. Together, they remind us of the importance of caring for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and of the role that faith can play in promoting resilience and well-being.

“As we celebrate Mental Health Week alongside Catholic Education Week, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing both the mind and spirit. Rooted in faith, our Catholic school community is committed to fostering compassion, resilience, and well-being in every student, guided by the love and teachings of Jesus Christ.”
— Caitlin Jones, Mental Health Lead

Staff, students, and families are invited to stand together in solidarity, fostering an environment where individuals feel seen, valued, and supported. Together, we can help remove the stigma surrounding mental health and build stronger, more connected communities.

Throughout Mental Health Week, schools will engage in activities that raise awareness about mental health and its impact on the school community.

The Resource Kit provided to all schools includes activities for students such as Christian Meditation, Prayer Jars, Wellness Bingo, Kindness Missions and Kindness Chains, Affirmation Cards, and more.

To learn more visit CMHA Mental Health Week