Pedaling Towards Better Mental Health
- Leigh Calla
- Oct 10, 2024
- 3 min read
October 10th marks World Mental Health Day, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness and rallying support for mental health. As an organization committed to supporting local mountain bike societies, we recognize the direct impact that mountain biking can have on mental well-being and addiction recovery.
Mountain Biking: Your Ticket to a Happier Mind
Mountain biking isn't just about hitting the trails - it's a perfect combo of working out, soaking up nature, and getting your dose of community and stoke. Science backs it all up; these things are awesome for your mental health, and that's why we're spreading the word.
Here's how shredding trails can level up your mental game and help kick addictions:
Getting Physical
When you're pumping those pedals, your body's cranking out endorphins - nature's own feel-good juice!
Nature Fix
Spending time in the great outdoors is like a chill pill for your brain. Mountain biking gets you right in the thick of it, helping knock your stress down a peg and boost your mental mojo.
Community and Stoke
The MTB community is all about good vibes! You'll find a solid crew that's got your back, giving you that sense of belonging and helping kick those lonely feels to the curb.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're facing mental health challenges, recovering from addiction, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, consider giving mountain biking a try. It might just be the ride that changes your life.
-Leigh Calla
The WoodridgeMTB Commitment to You
We're not just talking the talk - we're pedalling the path right alongside you! Our team is all in on keeping this mental health momentum going strong. We support group rides through the Shred Collective, volunteer and partner with the recovery pros at Alpha House Calgary, and invest in local trails through local mountain bike societies. This isn't a one-day thing for us - it's a year-round mission to keep our community rolling strong, both on and off the trails!
Mental Health & Addiction Resources
24/7 Crisis Support Lines
Call: 9-8-8
Text: 9-8-8
Call: 1-800-668-6868
Text: CONNECT to 686868
Live Chat: Online
Call: 403-266-4357
Text: 403-266-4357
Call: 780-482-4357
Text: CONNECT to 741741
Community Services
Alberta Health Services
Addiction Helpline: 1-866-332-2322
Mental Health Helpline: 1-877-303-2642
Health Advice & Information: 811
Call: 2-1-1
Text INFO to 211
Live Chat: Online
Visit ab.211.ca
Call: 403-299-9699
Text: 587-315-5000
Live Chat: Online
Free Programs & Resources
Free skill-building program from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress or worry.
A virtual walk-in click exclusive for young Albertans aged 12 to 25.
Free message service can deliver a daily dose of inspiration and advice straight to your phone via text message. Whether you’re feeling high or low on any given day, these simple messages can shift your perspective and give you something positive to build on.
Breaking down the barriers to mental health support by providing effective and affordable counselling to all Albertans. With no financial barriers or waitlists, they offer private, secure one-on-one, family, and group counselling that can be accessed online or by phone.
A a diverse and safe online community – a place where people can feel safe to share their feelings, support each other, and start to feel better. We expand the role and reach of peer support to populations large and small.