Mental Health and Recreation for Youth & Elders By NWTRPA Staff

In every Northern community, youth and Elders play an important role—one carrying the energy of what’s to come, the other carrying the knowledge of what has been. Yet both groups can face unique challenges when it comes to mental health. Recreation, in its many forms, can be a powerful tool to support mental wellness across generations.

For Youth: Belonging, Expression, and Resilience

Young people in the NWT are growing up in a world where traditional knowledge is colliding with modern change. That balance can be inspiring, but it can also be overwhelming. Recreation—whether it's sports, cultural practices, or creative arts—gives youth a healthy outlet to express themselves, build confidence, and connect with others.

Programs like after-school hand games, canoe clubs, or youth leadership camps help create safe, structured spaces where young people can feel seen and valued. These activities aren’t just "something to do”—they’re protective factors against anxiety, depression, and disconnection.

For Elders: Connection, Purpose, and Healing

Elders are the heart of Northern communities, but many face mental health challenges tied to isolation, intergenerational trauma, or physical limitations. Recreation doesn’t have to mean high-intensity movement. It can look like a community sewing circle, a morning walking group, or a storytelling event at the local school.

These gatherings bring purpose, routine, and—most importantly—connection. When Elders are included in recreation planning and programming, their wisdom is honoured, and their well-being is supported. 

And this group will continue to gain importance as, according to the NWT Health Status Report, they are the fastest growing demographic in the NWT. The NWTRPA currently supports NWT Elders and seniors by providing training and program support as a part of the Elders in Motion program.

Bridging Generations Through Recreation

Some of the most powerful recreational activities are those that bring youth and Elders together. Intergenerational events, like language camps, fishing weekends, or traditional games, build mutual respect and understanding. They’re good for the mind, body, and spirit—and they strengthen the fabric of the whole community.

The NWTRPA supports these intergenerational connections through it’s Generations on the Move program, which has a toolkit for developing intergenerational programming. 

You can find numerous examples of programs that bring youth and Elders together in the NWT in the 2023 NWT On the Land Collaborative Report, including the Snowshoe Making Workshop initiative, Experience on the Land initiative, and Des Cha – Honoring our Ancestors Gathering. 

Supporting Wellness at Every Age

We believe recreation is for everyone, and mental wellness is a shared responsibility. By creating inclusive, culturally relevant, and community-led programming, we can support youth and Elders where they’re at—and walk with them toward wellness.

Let’s keep moving, connecting, and growing—together.