6 FOCUS - MAY 2018 What is mental health? It is our emotional, psychological and social well-being and affects how we think and feel, and how we han- dle stress and relate to others. One in five people in Canada will experience a mental health problem or illness, and mental illness is a leading cause of dis- ability. There is a way that you canhelpinyourowncommunity! 2018 marks the 13th year for Community Care Durham’s Walk for Mental Health Awareness. The Walk raises funds and awareness about men- tal health, and helps to dispel the stigma that surrounds mental health disorders. The 13th annual walk happens on Saturday June 9 from 9 a.m. to noon. Participants can walk or run 1, 2 or 5 km. along the scenic Lake Scugog waterfront trail, and then return to the Port Perry Fairgrounds for a free barbeque. Among the great prizes is an overnight stay at the Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel on Blue Jays Way in Toronto. Registrants who raise $20 or more will receive an official Walk t-shirt. There are lots of fun activities for the whole family, and dogs are welcome too! The Walk path starts at the Fairgrounds, and then proceeds east to the waterfront trail around Canterbury Common on the shores of Lake Scugog. There will be refreshment stations along the route. CCD is a multi-service, registered charitable organi- zation providing community support services to more than 12,000 Durham Region adults and their caregivers who have needs related to aging, physical and/or mental health. Services in- clude COPE Mental Health, Meals on Wheels, Foot Care Clinics, Trans- portation, Luncheon Out, Home Help & Maintenance, Telephone Reassurance, In-Home Respite, Exercise & Falls Prevention classes, Specialized Geriatric Support and more. Community Care Durham services are provided free of charge or for a minimal fee, and are administered through of- fices across Durham Region, including an office right here in Scugog. If you or loved ones experience mental health challenges, CCD offers free services to help “COPE” with stress, anxiety and depression. This service is offered to adults, 16 years and older, and self-referrals are always welcome. In Scugog and across Durham Region, weekly support groups encourage participants ForMentalHealthAwarenessOnJune9! WALK ForMentalHealthAwarenessOnJune9! Community Care Durham invites everyone to join the walk and bring your dog along too!