Stacey Farber Instagram – “When is a good time to talk?”
“Are you ok?”
“How are you feeling?”
“Can I come over?”
“I’m worried about you.”
Talking about mental health issues and directly voicing concern to distressed friends or family members can be awkward. It’s difficult, it’s uncomfortable, AND it is worth your effort every time.
Today is Bell Let’s Talk day. I think the best thing on Bell’s site (other than the list of reliable mental health resources available across Canada) is the “Conversation Tool Kit” created in partnership with CAMH. It’s a short guide to help us navigate one-on-one talks with the people we care (and maybe worry) about if we feel nervous or intimidated or don’t quite know what to say.
Here are some stats: 1 in 3 Canadians will experience a mental illness at some point in their lives. Two thirds of Canadians living with mental health issues (including stretches of anxiety or depression) do not seek help. I imagine these numbers would be similar in other countries, sadly.
Social stigma (the negative attitudes and discrimination) towards poor mental health and “depressing” thoughts is rooted in fear and misunderstanding. It breeds the shame that keeps many people from trying to look for support. Sometimes, it stops people from admitting—even to themselves, in the first place—that they’re struggling.
Each of us suffers in our own way, privately. Let’s get real. And let’s help each other find the mental wellness we not only all desire, but deserve.
Learn more at: http://bell.ca/letstalk
#BellLetsTalk @bell_letstalk
Sweatshirt: @kidsworldwide | Posted on 26/Jan/2023 00:26:09
