Project 11 presention promotes mental health

Crowsnest Consolidated High School (CCHS) hosted an important presentation on October 3 to raise awareness of mental health and provide students with tools to manage their mental wellness. The event, held as part of the school’s junior high health and senior high career and life management programs, featured speakers from Project 11, a mental health initiative created in memory of former NHL player Rick Rypien, who hailed from the Crowsnest Pass and went to CCHS.

The presentation was led by Suzi Friesen, Director of Educational Programs for the True North Youth Foundation and Project 11, alongside local mental health professionals Mike Mertz, a counsellor with Alberta Health Services, and CCHS Family School Liaison Counsellor Mikaela Pushor. 

The keynote speaker was Craig Heisinger, Assistant General Manager of the Winnipeg Jets and General Manager of their AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose. Heisinger, a close friend of Rypien, shared his personal experiences surrounding Rypien’s struggles with mental illness and the lasting impact of his legacy. Friesen began by introducing Project 11 and explaining its role within the school’s curriculum. 

“Project 11 is in honor of Rick Rypien, a talented athlete and community builder whose legacy continues to inspire us to have open conversations about mental health,” she said.

Rick Rypien, a former NHL player who spent parts of six seasons with the Vancouver Canucks, took his own life in 2011 after a long battle with depression. Following his death, Project 11 was created to address mental health challenges faced by young people, using Rypien’s story as an example of the importance of seeking help and supporting friends and teammates.

Heisinger’s address to the students was emotional and candid, focusing on the themes of friendship, resilience, and mental health. He explained that Rypien was his first close friend to struggle with mental health issues, but not his last. 

“Rick’s story is one of perseverance, but it’s also a reminder that mental wellness does not discriminate,” Heisinger said, 

Heisinger shared stories from Rypien’s hockey career, including his journey from the Regina Pats in the WHL to becoming a fan favourite with the Manitoba Moose and Vancouver Canucks. He also recounted how Rypien almost left the sport entirely before Heisinger convinced him to give professional hockey another chance. 

“Rick was always the hardest worker on the ice. His work ethic was second to none,” said Heisinger.

Heisinger also spoke about his own family’s experiences with mental health challenges, revealing how Project 11 helped his son seek help for his own struggles.

“My son built up the courage to ask for help because of what he knew about Rick’s story and Project 11,” Heisinger said, “Today, my son is six years clean after battling addiction, and I truly believe that Rick’s legacy played a role in him seeking help.”

The presentation continued with a panel discussion where Friesen, Heisinger, Mertz, and Pushor answered questions submitted by students. Topics ranged from coping with anxiety and depression to the influence of social media on mental health.

Pushor emphasized the importance of self-awareness and healthy coping mechanisms. 

“It’s crucial to slow down and check in with yourself regularly,” she said. “Physical activity, talking to friends, and maintaining a healthy diet are all simple but effective ways to manage mental wellness.”

Mertz addressed the issue of anxiety and the importance of breaking tasks into manageable steps. 

“You don’t have to tackle everything at once,” he told the students, “Start small, build momentum, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.”

Heisinger also touched on the dangers of social media, advising students to be mindful of how they use it. 

“Social media can be a tool for connection, but it can also be a source of negativity,” he said, “Don’t hide behind a screen to hurt others. Be kind and be aware of the impact your words can have.”

The presentation concluded with a message of hope and encouragement. Heisinger urged the students to reach out if they or someone they know is struggling. 

“One in five people will experience mental health challenges at some point in their lives,” he said, “It’s not something that only affects other people. It’s real, and it’s something we all need to be aware of. Never give up on someone with mental illness—when ‘I’ is replaced by ‘we,’ illness becomes wellness.”

“You don’t have to be a doctor to help; you just have to be a good friend and listen,” added Heisinger.

The event was well-received by students and staff alike, who praised the speakers for their honest and heartfelt discussions on mental health. The presentation was part of an ongoing effort by CCHS to provide students with resources and support related to mental wellness.

Project 11, named after Rick Rypien’s jersey number, continues to be an important resource in schools, encouraging young people to take care of their mental health and seek help when needed.