It took two months of deliberating before Tiera took the brave step to access services for the first time at Foundry Abbotsford in 2019.
She was at an incredibly low point in her mental health journey when a friend reached out and encouraged her to visit Foundry.
She remembers how scared she felt sitting in the waiting room by herself, anxiously awaiting her first counselling session. Despite her nerves, she found solace in sharing her story and being seen and validated by her service provider who immediately recognized her love for art.
Her counsellor suggested exploring wellness programs where she could connect with other youth and partake in various group activities. Tiera declined numerous times, terrified by the idea of putting herself out there and meeting new people, but her service provider never stopped extending the invitation. When she eventually agreed, she felt reassured to discover there were other young people going through similar experiences of feeling stuck and alone.
Through wellness programs, she had the chance to participate in fun and unique activities such as goat yoga and discovered how meaningful it was to be included. “Not only was I able to get help for my mental health, but I was also able to get help in so many other ways” she says.
Living by herself during COVID-19 left her, and many other youth, feeling isolated and disconnected. Wellness groups were able to adapt services to offer virtual activities such as at-home baking sessions so young people could feel connected, even from a distance.
Through these groups, Tiera was able to connect with Foundry Peer Support workers in a casual, non-clinical setting. She finally felt a sense of community and belonging that was immensely supportive for her mental health.
“Having true friendships with people and making those connections meant the world to me and it really gave me a sense of community,” she says.
The power of connection
Tiera shares she never thought she would be where she is today. Reflecting on her journey, she recognizes how impactful relationships and supportive connections were to her mental wellness. Driven by a desire to give back, she has dedicated herself to creating a welcoming community to support other youth in their own journey.
Earlier this year, Tiera was chosen as the well deserving recipient of the Brent Seal Mind vs. Mountain award. She generously donated the funds back to the centre to support youth groups with supplies for activities that may have not previously been accessible to them.
She sends a heartfelt message to other young people hesitating to seek supports for their mental health:
"Somehow find a way to go. If you need to bring a friend or comfort item to support you while you wait, just go. Whether it’s attending a group, counseling session or medical appointment, getting through the door is the hardest part, once you get here, you’re safe and in good hands. "
Foundry is here for you, wherever you’re at. We offer free and confidential health and wellness service for BC youth aged 12-24 to connect with peers, join a group or workshop, or talk to a counsellor.
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