City of Regina Unveils ‘Reflection Benches’ During Mental Health Week

Mental Health Week, May 2-8, is an opportunity for communities, schools and workplaces to celebrate, protect and promote mental health. In 2022, the City of Regina is partnering with the Canadian Mental Health Association – Regina Branch to remind residents that: If you are in need of support – you are not alone.

This year’s Mental Health Week theme is ‘empathy’. People who are struggling don’t always need someone to ‘fix things for them’ – they need someone to understand where they are coming from. To support positive conversations, the City will soon install five Reflection Benches in parks throughout Regina.

“The City of Regina is committed to the safety and well-being of all residents in our community,” said Mayor Sandra Masters. “The Reflection Benches will serve as a physical reminder in our city to take a moment to reflect, and to take care of oneself and each other.”

Each bench will include a sign noting the importance of taking time for mental wellness, and a QR code that directs users to contact information for a range of organizations offering mental health and wellness support services. The list is also available at Regina.ca/mentalhealth

“We are so pleased to partner with the City of Regina on the first Reflection Benches for all Regina residents,” said Shannon Patton, Director of Community Engagement, Canadian Mental Health Association - Regina Branch. “It’s an effective way to keep the conversation of mental health and wellness at the forefront.”

The Community Safety and Well-being Plan notes that mental health supports are essential to creating a better community. The City acknowledges the strong network of mental health organizations and agencies dedicated to providing support in Regina.

Five more Reflection Bench locations will be added in city park locations in 2023. For more information on Mental Health Week, visit mentalhealthweek.ca

Reflection Bench locations being installed in 2022:

• A.E Wilson Park (Ward 8)
• Behind the Sandra Schmirler Leisure Centre (Ward 4)
• Imperial Park (Ward 7)
• Parkdale Park (Ward 3)
• Kinsmen Park South (Ward 1)

Reflection Bench locations to be installed in 2023:

• New Albert Park (Ward 2)
• Parkridge Park (Ward 5)
• Lakeridge Park (Ward 10)
• Westhill Park (Ward 9)
• Eastview (Ward 6)