May 18, 2021
See Serena Ryder at A Mental Health Morning
The Juno Award-Winning Musician and Mental Health Advocate will be Headlining the 9th Annual A Mental Health Morning
For Serena Ryder, music is medicine. Her raw and earnest songwriting and beautifully electric live performances of songs like Stompa and Got Your Number, have made her a favourite amongst fans, peers, and critics alike.
On the outside, she was a rising international star. But on the inside she was battling a deep depression that triggered an identity crisis and onstage panic attacks. She admits that she uses music as her medicine, which has helped her navigate many of the difficulties associated with depression and anxiety. Ryder also learned to be vulnerable and embrace her truth, both of which played a role in her healing process.
“I have so many feelings that I have swallowed, and they add up, coming out one way or another — often by bypassing the truth, getting angry, defensive, even masking with partying or bad relationships,” says Ryder. “I’ve found that tears are actually the best way to heal, because we actually release healing hormones when we cry. I’d love to normalize crying, as tears have healed me many times.”
We’re thrilled to announce that Serena Ryder is the keynote speaker at our 9th Annual A Mental Health Morning event on Thursday, October 7, 2021. Guests can join Serena from the comfort and safety of their home or office to listen in as she sings a song or two and shares her personal mental health story. We will also celebrate our 2021 Spirit of Hope Award Winners. Click here to nominate someone for a Spirit of Hope Award.
As we know how much we are all struggling with our mental health amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Joe’s will once again offer attendance to A Mental Health Morning free of charge, but we ask that you consider making a donation to support our mental health and addiction program that provides care for our community during this difficult time.