A group in New Glasgow is opening the lines of communication when it comes to mental health by hosting a fundraising fashion show.
The first Models for Mental Health was held three years ago as a way to break down some of barriers associated with talking about mental health.
“We're doing something for the community, generating some more interest, some more enthusiasm,” said show organizer Lil DeYoung. “Some more, I guess, concern as well for the fact that mental health is everybody's concern. We're all affected, even if we think we aren't.”
From the beginning, organizers wanted the models to accurately represent the community, where people come in all ages, shapes and sizes.
“Mental health is something that knows no boundaries as far as an illness,” said show organizer Shawna Coleman. “You can have issues in your teens and well into life as we age. So it knows no boundaries.”
Twenty-five models strutted their stuff on the catwalk, some for the first time ever.
Starr Dobson, president of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, served as emcee for the event. She loves the fashion show idea, and not just for the fun atmosphere it creates.
“It's also opening up lines of communication to talk about things like depression, anxiety and PTSD and suicide,” said Dobson. “They're tough topics to talk about, so it's wonderful to have so many people come together in a room and just feel like it's a safe place.”
Chief Andrea Paul of the Pictou Landing First Nation has been there since the beginning. She says talking about mental health is important.
“The women are so supportive, and the ladies, Starr and Lily and Shawna, have been absolutely amazing,” said Paul.
The fashion show has raised more than $20,000 in the first two years of its existence. Given the size of the crowd this year, there's no doubt plans are underway for another successful show next year.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Dan MacIntosh.
