REGINA — Regina will open its doors to compassion, connection and practical mental health support on Jan. 28 as More Joy Regina returns to the Conexus Arts Centre. What once began as a small local gathering has grown into a major community event that combines lived experience with real resources, all in the name of breaking isolation and building hope.
Founded in 2019 by Regina journalist Christalee Froese, the More Joy Movement grew out of her own experience with a nervous breakdown and the book she wrote about it, Journey to Joy. Froese saw how difficult it was for people to find help, not because resources did not exist, but because anxiety and depression can make reaching out feel overwhelming.
“What More Joy Regina does is bring everything together in one place so you can connect with resources and walk away with hope,” Froese said. “Depression and anxiety tend to isolate you. It’s sometimes hard to reach out or do the research you need to get help.”
More Joy was designed as a one‑stop hub for anyone seeking information, connection or a starting point on their mental health journey. Provincial mental health booths will offer direct access to grief support, addiction family support groups, peer recovery resources, cognitive behaviour therapy options and more, creating opportunities for practical next steps.
The More Joy Movement has had zero dollars provided from government sources. Funds raised from More Joy events have been donated to the Canadian Mental Health Association, and to cover counselling fees for those without work programs.
The evening’s keynote address will be delivered by Brit Dort, a local reporter who has openly discussed her personal experience with anxiety, reinforcing that mental health issues cross every age, profession and life stage.
A moderated discussion between Froese and psychiatrist Dr. Omosade Ogundare will explore real tools for navigating mental wellness and how to break down barriers to support.
Music and vulnerability will also take centre stage when Saskatchewan musician JJ Voss performs a brand new song he wrote specifically about mental health. Speaking about his participation, Voss said he hopes being open about his own challenges will encourage others to speak up as well.
“I really admire people who are able to talk about their mental health struggles in front of people,” Voss said. “It takes courage and strength to be that vulnerable. If other people see that, maybe they’ll feel okay talking too.”
The event also includes comfort elements designed to soothe and support. Therapy dogs from St. John Ambulance will greet attendees, and a separate puppy room with Bright Eyes Dog Rescue offers a quieter space for reflection and connection.
To end the night on an uplifting note, Rider cheerleader Lily Kary will lead a flash mob that invites everyone to move together, celebrating community spirit and resilience.
Froese encourages people to attend with a friend, relative or coworker because she says shared experiences builds strength. For those who want to attend with someone else, there’s a Bring Your Buddy ticket option, two people for a reduced price. Froese said cost should never stand between someone and support. Tickets are structured to cover costs, but free access is available for anyone who needs it.
She added that More Joy is not just an event. "It is a gathering point for hope, a space to get information, and a reminder that Regina is a community that faces life’s challenges together."
