June 10th is Action Anxiety Day, an opportunity for our community to come together in support of individuals affected by anxiety. While this event is recognized by mental health advocates from both urban and rural areas across Canada, today we want to shine a spotlight on rural mental health and resources that address disparities in these communities.
Living in rural areas often means facing unique challenges when it comes to mental health care. With limited local providers and long wait times, many individuals find themselves dealing with mental health issues alone. Mental illness is also more likely to be stigmatized in rural areas, adding yet another barrier that prevents people from reaching out for help.
At Stigma-Free Mental Health Society, we are dedicated to changing this narrative. Part of our mission is to empower rural residents by providing valuable mental health resources and fostering a sense of belonging, even when care is difficult to access. Through our Rural Mental Wellness Toolkit, peer support training, and sharing powerful lived experiences, we reassure individuals that they are not alone on their journey with anxiety.
Addressing Anxiety in Rural Canada
Founded by Anxiety Canada, Action Anxiety Day challenges the idea that people should simply “push through” their anxiety without seeking support, or that anxiety is something to be ashamed of. Canadians are encouraged to wear blue and orange in solidarity, share their own stories, and raise awareness about evidence-based resources that help others learn about and cope with anxiety. For those living in rural areas, it’s the perfect time to introduce tools that might not otherwise be accessible. That’s where our Rural Mental Wellness Program comes in.
In honour of Action Anxiety Day, we invite you to explore these recommended Stigma-Free resources:
Inspiring Stories: Rural Residents Open Up About Their Mental Health Journeys
In the Inspiring Stories section of the Toolkit, we showcase video testimonials from courageous individuals like Dave Richardson and Harley Siemens, who grew up in rural communities and now openly share their experiences with anxiety and stigma. These honest, first-hand stories foster empathy, normalize seeking support, and encourage others to speak out and seek help.
Watch our Inspiring Stories and share them with your community!
Conversation Cards: Breaking the Ice on Mental Health
Starting a conversation about mental health in your rural community may feel difficult at first, but with our Conversation Cards, you’ve got a tool to help you get past the discomfort. Use these cards at local events or peer support groups to challenge stigma with facts and spark discussions about anxiety and mental health.
Life & Work Well-Being: Finding Balance for Mental Health
Our Life & Work Well-Being resources, including the printable Getting Back in Balance brochure, are ideal for sharing at events in your community. This section of the Toolkit offers actionable steps for building resilience against chronic stressors that can exacerbate anxiety in farming and rural work environments.
We also offer Rural Peer Support Fundamentals Training for those who are looking to make a difference in rural areas. Facilitated by Sara Riel Inc., this training provides you with the knowledge to deliver peer support in your neighbourhood and facilitate your own one-on-one or group sessions. Be sure to check our website for updates about the next training and join the wait list for fall 2025!
How You Can Take Action 
Here’s what you can do right now to get involved and help others in your rural community:
- Become a Rural Resilience Champion. By volunteering as a Rural Resilience Champion, you are directly supporting the Rural Minds Matter Awareness Campaign. This campaign is dedicated to opening conversations about mental health in rural areas and breaking down the stigma that often prevents people from seeking help. As a Rural Resilience Champion, you will connect individuals to accessible resources, promote the campaign, and build peer support networks in your community. If you believe in the Rural Minds Matter message and are interested in collaborating, we want to hear from you – learn more and join us in creating change across rural Canada.
- Share Mental Health Resources. Post links to our Rural Mental Wellness Toolkit on social media using the hashtags #ACTonAnxiety and #RuralMentalWellness. Help us spread the word!
- Lift Up Lived Experiences. Sharing your own journey with anxiety or lifting up the stories of others can significantly contribute to reducing stigma.
This Action Anxiety Day, let’s work together to ensure no one has to face anxiety alone. Everyone deserves to have access to the support they need to care for their mental health and flourish. By spreading awareness about available resources, we can provide vital education and help bridge gaps in mental health support.
References:
Action Anxiety Day Educator Toolkit. Anxiety Canada.
Paquet, J., Hibbard, K., & Brett-MacLean, P. (2024). The landscape of non-psychotic psychiatric illness in rural Canada: a narrative review. Rural and Remote Health.
Author: Monique Zizzo
