Let’s Talk

Bell – Let’s Talk Day

Content courtesy of the Bell Let’s Talk Day website:https://letstalk.bell.ca/en/

SMALL ACTIONS – BIG IMPACT. On Bell Let’s Talk Day on January 29th, 2020, Bell will donate towards mental health initiatives in Canada by contributing 5¢ for every applicable text, call, tweet (#BellLetsTalk) social media video view and use of their Facebook frame or Snapchat filter.

When it comes to mental health, every action counts. Helping to end the stigma around mental illness can help create positive change.

It’s a fact: one in five people in Canada will experience a mental health issue or illness in any given year. One of the biggest hurdles for anyone suffering from mental illness is overcoming the stigma. It is the number one reason why two-thirds of those living with a mental illness do not seek help.

Let’s Talk launched in 2010 with a focus on building awareness, acceptance and action in mental health. Since then Canadians have taken the conversation around mental health to remarkable heights, making it clear that mental health matters. Developed in partnership with Dr. Heather Stuart, the Bell Canada Mental Health and Anti-stigma Research Chair at Queen’s University, here are 5 simple ways to help end the stigma that keeps too many who struggle with mental illness from seeking the help they need:

Language Matters
The words you use can make all the difference. Words can help, but they can also hurt. What would you choose?

Educate yourself
Stigma has been around for a long time, and knowing the facts and myths about mental illness can be a great way to help end the stigma. Read about facts and myths, and become a stigma buster.

Be kind
Simple kindness can make a world of difference. Whether it be a smile, being a good listener or an invitation for coffee and a chat, these simple acts of kindness can help open up the conversation and let someone know you are there for them. Expressions like “You’ll get over it” and “Just relax” can minimize how a person is feeling. Instead offer your support and say “I’m sorry you aren’t feeling well.” Ask what you can do to help.

Listen and ask
Mental illness is a very common form of human pain and suffering. Being a good listener and asking how you can help, sometimes just even being there for people you care about, can be the first step in recovery.
Here are a few examples of what to ask:

Talk about it
Break the silence. Mental illness touches us all in some way directly or through a friend, family member or colleague. Stories of people who have experienced mental health issues and who are doing well can really challenge stereotypes. Most people with mental health issues can and do recover, just by talking about it.

To learn more about Bell Canada’s Let’s Talk Campaign: https://letstalk.bell.ca/en/our-initiatives