Hockey Talks: Mental Health Awareness
What is Hockey Talks?
Hockey Talks is an annual initiative where NHL hockey clubs raise awareness about mental health and offer fans the opportunity to get involved through social media. Each year the Vancouver Canucks dedicate a home game to supporting dialogue and positive change around mental health. Fans are encouraged to share personal messages and messages of support to create an open dialogue and awareness about mental health, using the #HockeyTalks.
The initiative started in 2013 to honour the legacy of Rick Rypien – a dedicated Vancouver Canuck player who bravely fought depression.
Rick’s Story
Rick Rypien was known by his teammates for his sense of humour in the locker room and dedication and strong work ethic on the ice and in the gym. His passion and loyalty to his team was unparalleled.
He grew up in a picturesque, small rural community in Alberta where his love of the outdoors was born. Rick was a true outdoorsman, finding solace in fishing and hunting. Away from the rink, his time was spent with his close-knit family and strong group of friends.
Character
Rick earned a reputation and was noticed for his toughness on the ice. But it was his offensive skills and forechecking abilities that developed him into an all-around player fit for an NHL role. He notched his first goal on his first shift and battled opponents more than twice his size, becoming a fan favourite in his role as David versus Goliath.
While with the Vancouver Canucks and Manitoba Moose, he spent countless hours volunteering his time to charitable initiatives that helped children in a number of capacities. He returned home each summer to continue his philanthropic work, volunteering and donating items to hockey camps to foster their growth and encourage young hockey players. Rick was able to do so while battling a disease that can completely encompass a person’s mental and physical state.
Selfless
Professionally, he served as a protector, always looking out for others. His utmost concern was his teammates. This sentiment was mimicked in his approach to family and friends.
Not wanting to burden others, Rick shied away from revealing his battle with depression until he confided in friends Kevin Bieksa and Craig Heisinger.
He was able to identify his feelings, but was still left confused as to why he was undergoing this type of pain. Rick utilized a number of resources available to him in an attempt to cope with the symptoms associated with depression. He had a strong support network of friends and family which he could talk to about the feelings he was having. Once learning of his condition, the Vancouver Canucks granted him leaves and helped find appropriate medical care to help Rick in his struggle against depression.
His legacy
A hockey hero, a son, a brother, a teammate, a friend – Rick Rypien meant so much to so many. He accomplished a great deal in a short amount of time. Rick confided in those he knew best of his plans to support others and help alleviate the stigma associated with mental illness by being a spokesperson of the ordeals of the disease. Those who knew him best have committed to tell his story and carry out the mission as a legacy of their friend, Rick Rypien.
The Vancouver Canuck’s Role in Promoting Mental Health
To honour the legacy of their teammate and friend, the Vancouver Canucks and the Canucks for Kids Fund began a quest to raise awareness of mental health and help overcome stigma. Hockey Talks is one example of the Vancouver Canucks’ leadership in supporting mental health in the community. They have also been valuable partners in the development of foundrybc.ca, previously mindcheck.ca, and the Balancing Our Minds initiative. We are grateful for their ongoing dedication to supporting youth mental health.
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