Young Minds, Big Ideas: ContemPLATE Magazine

ContemPLATE is an interactive self-help magazine, created by a group of young people at Coast Mental Health’s Young Adult Program.

It’s a deeply personal response to the realities of mental health, food insecurity, and stigma.

“We are Rabble Rousers, a group of passionate young adults dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and sharing personal stories to create positive change.” they share in the magazine.

Thanks to you, these young adults collaborated to create something tangible that they can offer to others experiencing mental health challenges.

A Community of Advocates

Many of the Rabble Rousers joined for connection, advocacy, and personal growth.

“I wanted to get involved and learn something new,” said Andy. “It seemed like a good way to connect with others, build confidence, and talk about issues that matter like mental health and nutrition.”

Others, like Dayley, were drawn to the group because of its mission to challenge stigma:

“What Rabble Rousers stand for resonates with me. Standing up for mental health and ending stigma in the community.”

 Jack, who creates under the pen name Will Dewgrave, says it’s the opportunity to co-create and connect with others who share similar life experiences:

“It’s been a fantastic experience coordinating and collaborating with individuals from such diverse backgrounds whom I nevertheless share much with.

Mental Health and Food

One of the central themes of ContemPLATE is the link between nutrition and mental well-being, something that is often overlooked.

“When you’re not eating well, it can affect your mood, energy, and focus,” said Andy. “Healthy food helps your brain work better.”

Dayley explained how processed, low-cost foods are easily accessible but can lead to long-term health and mood challenges:

“Unprocessed foods like vegetables, fruit, and fish give the brain nutrients for better focus, memory, and reduced stress.”

Jack added that nutrition is foundational to mental health:

“Adequate nutrition is one of the pillars. It’s impossible to address higher stages of well-being without it.”

Facing Barriers and Offering Solutions

The Rabble Rousers are candid about the barriers many young people face, like poverty, lack of access to fresh food, and limited cooking skills.

“Healthy food is expensive. Fast food is cheap and requires no cooking,” said Dayley. “Most teens don’t have cars to get groceries.”

For them, the solutions include:

• Community kitchens and affordable meals.
• More education in schools about nutrition and mental health.
• Better access to food, especially in low-income areas.
• And as Jack suggests “maybe even tech-based tools to help young people track and improve their meals affordably.”

“Financial, societal, personal, all kinds of support and lots of it,” Jack adds.

Advocacy in Action

The magazine is the Rabble Rousers’ answer to these challenges: an interactive resource that includes art, writing, wellness check-ins, and easy-to-make recipes.

“We talk about food insecurity, self-care, and wellness in a way young people can relate to,” Andy explained. “It’s about sharing stories and making people feel like they’re not alone.”

Samantha shares that readers who find themselves in need can also get involved with the Young Adult Program at Coast, where they can access nutritious meals for just $2 and join the community kitchen.

“It’s a place where you’re encouraged to eat well, connect with others, and learn life skills in a safe space.”

Real Talk About Struggles and Stigma

The Rabble Rousers also want people to know the warning signs of food insecurity and mental health challenges from withdrawal, fatigue, mood shifts, to skipping meals.

“Be there for people. Offer what you can spare,” said Jack. “And believe them when they say the mental health system doesn’t always meet them with care.”

One anonymous member opened up about the traumatic experience of being apprehended under the Mental Health Act:

“Being cuffed and transported by police is humiliating. People take pictures and laugh. It makes you feel worse, not better.”

Their message is clear: we need more trauma-informed, compassionate mental health support. Not confrontation. Not shame. More dignity.

Words of Wisdom

Their advice for others is heartfelt:

• “Talk to someone you trust,” said Andy.
• “Keep writing. Keep forgiving. Keep showing up,” said Dayley.
• “Come to the young adult space. It’s a very safe place,” added another.

And from Jack:
“Life might not get better, but you’ll get tougher. Accept the pain, and keep working anyway.”

What’s Next?

While ContemPLATE is a one-time issue (for now), the impact it’s having is ongoing. You can read the magazine online here, and keep an eye out at local youth centres and community events.

The Rabble Rousers have also created podcasts, murals, and other public projects. Each one is a testament to what happens when young people are given the space and the support to lead the conversation on mental health.

Thanks to you, this is possible.

Programs like the Rabble Rousers are powered by the generosity of Coast Mental Health Foundation’s donors, including the group’s lead funder, the Westminster Foundation. 

Every contribution helps provide people youth with access to nutritious food, safe spaces for connection, and the chance to turn their experiences into change-making stories like ContemPLATE. Thank you.