Lakelands Public Health Encourages Social Connections During Mental Health Week

‘Connection Corner Displays’ coming soon to 18 public library branches

(April 28, 2026) – Lakelands Public Health is encouraging residents to focus on social connection during  Mental Health Week, May 4th to 10th, 2026. This year’s theme highlights the important role social connection plays in supporting mental health and overall well-being, helping to reduce stress, improve mood, and foster a sense of belonging. 

To support this, Lakelands Public Health is launching Connection Corner Displays in partnership with 18 library branches across the County of Haliburton, the City of Kawartha Lakes, and Northumberland County. Residents can visit participating libraries to explore these interactive displays, which highlight the benefits of connection and ways to build social connections, share local programs and resources, and offer a chance to win a connection-themed prize. 

“Social connection impacts both our physical and mental health,” said Joanne Brewster, Health Promoter with Lakelands Public Health. “Even small moments, like a conversation, shared activity, or time spent in a community space, can make a meaningful difference. Libraries provide spaces for people to gather, share  knowledge, learn, have fun and experience a sense of belonging.” 

Connection Corner Displays | Participating Libraries: 

City of Kawartha Lakes Public Library 

• Bobcaygeon Branch – 123 East St. S., Bobcaygeon  

• Coboconk Branch – 9 Grandy Rd., Coboconk  

• Lindsay Branch – 190 Kent St. W., Lindsay  

• Fenelon Falls Branch – 19 Market St., Fenelon Falls  

• Bethany Branch – 1474 Hwy 7A, Bethany 

Cobourg Public Library 

• Cobourg Branch – 200 Ontario St., Cobourg  

Brighton Public Library 

• Brighton Branch –35 Alice St., Brighton 

• Codrington Branch – 2992 County Rd. 30, Codrington 

Port Hope Public Library 

• Mary J. Benson Branch – 31 Queen St., Port Hope

Trent Hills Public Library 

• Campbellford Branch – 98 Bridge St. E., Campbellford 

• Hastings Branch – 6 Albert St. E., Hastings 

Cramahe Public Library 

• Colborne Branch – 6 King St. W., Colborne  

• Castleton Branch – 1780 Percy St., Castleton  

Alnwick/Haldimand Public Library 

• Bette LeBarr Branch – 718 Station Rd., Grafton  

• Roseneath Branch – 9059 County Rd. 45, Roseneath 

Haliburton County Public Library 

• Dysart Branch (Haliburton Village) – 78 Maple Ave., Haliburton 

• Minden Hills Branch – 176 Bobcaygeon Rd., Minden 

• Wilberforce Branch – 1101 Holmes Rd., Wilberforce 

Having good mental health does not mean life is free from challenges. Everyone experiences ups and downs, and connecting with friends, family, neighbours, or co-workers can help people feel supported during difficult times. 

When people have strong, supportive social connections, they are more resilient, feel a stronger sense of belonging in relationships and in the community, and experience a better quality of life. Prioritizing connection is an investment in health, both now and in the future. 

To learn more about Mental Health Week activities and to find a Connection Corner Display near you, visit  LakelandsPH.ca/Connection.