Innovating Mental Wellness in Alberta

Ray Yue is a dynamic force in the realm of mental health care in Alberta, merging his background as a pharmacist with his entrepreneurial spirit to address critical gaps in the system. With a deep-seated passion for both physical and mental wellness, Yue has dedicated his career to innovating and implementing holistic health solutions that serve diverse communities across the province. We had a chance to learn more about these initiatives and what drives Yue to passionately pursue this field.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to focus on mental health in Alberta?

I've always had a deep connection with health care, starting with my background as a pharmacist. As a serial entrepreneur focused on finding ways to innovate and bring to life better solutions to our communities, I have seen many areas that can be disrupted with newer ways of thinking. My journey evolved into a passion for not just physical wellness but mental health, which is just as critical but often overlooked. Growing up in Alberta, I witnessed firsthand the gaps in mental health services, especially in underserved communities and within Indigenous populations. This pushed me to co-found CARE Group and Evolve Strength, which are both centred on holistic health—combining physical strength with mental resilience. It’s that fusion of physical and mental wellness that inspires me every day, and Alberta, with its diverse landscape and people, has always been a key focus for me to drive change.

What are some of the most significant mental health challenges currently facing Alberta residents?

Alberta faces a number of mental health challenges, but the biggest ones stem from access and stigma. Many residents, especially in rural and remote areas, simply don’t have access to the right services when they need them most. Another issue is the stigma surrounding mental health; people are often afraid to speak up or seek help, believing it’s a sign of weakness. Economic pressures, the pandemic, and the mental strain that comes within many of our key industries also contribute to high levels of anxiety, depression, and addiction issues. These are things we need to tackle head-on.

Can you share some of the initiatives or programs you’re involved in to improve mental health services in Alberta?

At CARE Group, we’ve launched several initiatives aimed at addressing those challenges. One of the key programs is our digital mental health hub, which gives people 24/7 access to mental health tools, resources, and virtual consultations, whether they’re in Edmonton or a remote part of the province. We’ve also focused on bringing culturally relevant mental health programs to Indigenous communities, working closely with elders and leaders to design solutions that resonate with their needs. On the physical health side, at Evolve Strength, we combine mental and physical fitness programs—because we believe true health is holistic. Strengthening your body goes hand in hand with strengthening your mind.

What are some common misconceptions about mental health that you encounter and how do you address them?

One common misconception is that mental health only matters when you’re in crisis. The reality is that mental health is something we should be taking care of daily, just like physical fitness. Another misconception is that therapy or mental health support is only for severe cases. We work hard to show people that everyone can benefit from talking to someone or using mental health tools—whether you’re feeling a bit off, or dealing with something more serious. By making mental health more accessible and part of everyday life, we hope to eliminate these misconceptions.

Can you speak more on how AI factors into mental health care?

AI plays a crucial role in making mental health care more personalized and accessible. At CARE Group, we use AI to provide tailored support based on individual needs. Whether it's through mood tracking, personalized resources, or even predicting potential mental health challenges before they escalate, AI allows us to offer proactive, rather than reactive, care. By analyzing data in real time, we can create customized care pathways for people, ensuring they get the right help at the right time. This kind of technology can reduce wait times and make mental health care scalable across the province.

In your opinion, what are the key areas where Alberta’s mental health services need improvement?

The biggest areas for improvement are accessibility and integration. We need to make mental health services easier to access, especially in rural and remote areas. Technology like virtual mental health hubs can help bridge that gap. Integration is another key area—we need to stop thinking of mental and physical health as separate entities. Programs that combine the two, like what we’re doing at Evolve Strength, should be the standard. Finally, more investment is needed in preventive care—supporting people before they hit a crisis point will not only improve lives but also reduce strain on the healthcare system.

How do you see the future of mental health care evolving in Alberta over the next five to ten years?

I think the future of mental health care in Alberta will be much more tech-driven, with AI and virtual care playing a major role. We’ll see mental health tools integrated into everyday life—whether it’s through wearables that track your mood, or apps that offer instant support. I also believe mental health will be treated more holistically, as we continue to break down the barriers between physical and mental wellness. And finally, we’ll see more culturally specific mental health programs that speak to the unique needs of Indigenous and other underrepresented communities. Overall, mental health will become more personalized and accessible.

What are three important “luxuries” you must have in order to live a good life?

For me, luxury is all about balance. First, well-being—both physical and mental—is the ultimate luxury. It’s something I prioritize through regular fitness and mindfulness practices. Second, connection—whether it’s with my family, my team, or the community—is incredibly important. Finally, purpose—I believe living a life that’s aligned with your passion and values is a luxury that not everyone gets to experience. I’m grateful that I’ve been able to create businesses that allow me to contribute meaningfully to the world.

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