You don’t need perfect words. You just need to start by showing up.

When someone we care about is having a hard time, it can be tough to know what to say or do. This practical, plain-language guide can help you recognize when something may have changed, start a caring conversation, and support someone as they find the help they need.

Written by Chris Bragg of Critter Moto and Get Lost…Find Yourself Foundation, the guide draws on Chris’s lived experience, Mental Health First Aid training, and a belief that people don’t have to face the hard days alone.

Inside, you’ll find:

• A clear explanation of how mental health and mental illness differ—and how they can exist together

• Changes in mood, behaviour, physical health, and connection that may be worth checking in about

• The A.L.G.E.E.S. framework for offering support, including a reminder to care for yourself as you support someone else

• Conversation starters and practical ways to listen, offer help, and follow up

• Guidance for responding when someone may be thinking about suicide

• Canadian support resources, including 9-8-8, 9-1-1, and 2-1-1

This 11-page downloadable guide is for friends, partners, family members, coworkers, riders, and anyone who wants to be there for someone but isn’t sure where to begin. It’s educational and does not replace care from a qualified professional.

Download the guide for $5 CAD. Start a conversation. Stay connected.

Proceeds from this guide support the Get Lost…Find Yourself Foundation’s work to raise awareness and fund mental-health initiatives.