The South Asian Mental Health Community Forum takes place in Surrey on Saturday, May 24 and Sunday, May 25. Learn tips on how to stay happy and healthy, learn about mental health and wellness, and gain support and guidance in a supportive and inclusive environment. 

“Mental illness affects 1 in 4 people worldwide regardless of culture or country,” explains Dr. Shimi Kang, Medical Director of Vancouver Coastal Health Authority Child & Youth Mental Health. “South Asian specific cultural issues can impact the presentation, course, and management of illness for affected individuals and their families.”

The forum includes workshops on wellness, meditation, yoga, myths and meditation, counseling and therapy, and nutrition and exercise. Presentations on depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, substance abuse, alcoholism and ADHD will also be available to the public, with resources in English, Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu. 

 The free event takes place at Princess Margaret Secondary School, 12870 72 Avenue, in Surrey from 10:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. on both days. Learn more at  www. samhaa.org.