Today is Bell Let’s Talk Day. It is a Canadian-based initiative that brings attention to the stigma associated with mental health. One of the spokespeople for this annual campaign on mental health issues is Olympian Clara Hughes. She has won six Olympic medals for cycling and speed skating; yes, that’s two sports and six medals! Very impressive.
As for mental health, Clara has wise words to share on the topic:
There’s an incredible stigma attached to mental health issues, to mental illness, because it’s so invisible
~Clara Hughes
The above quote from Clara is just one of many excellent ones that I could have inserted into this post.
The Fearless Clara Hughes
Clara Hughes has spoken publicly about her struggles with depression, on Bell Let’s Talk Day and beyond. The fact that mental illnesses, such as depression, are invisible, unlike many other illnesses, is often what causes it to be misunderstood by onlookers. They may question, is it real? Is the person faking it? Is it all made up?
And then there are people who tell someone who has depression to just “cheer up” or get back to work. If only it were that simple.
It’s not as easy a solution as that, unfortunately. So now you understand how the mental health stigma continues to exist in Canada and many parts of the world… and why Bell Let’s Talk Day is a must. In fact, words like “cheer up” can actually cause somebody with mental illness to feel:
- Inadequate
- Frustrated
- Sad
- Angry
Many times it’s a mix of all three emotions. I speak from experience and currently take antidepressants.
Bell Let’s Talk Day: What You Can Do
Today, on Bell Let’s Talk Day, you can make a difference in helping to end the stigma that is still associated with mental illness. The purpose of this special day is also to increase awareness about mental health issues and discuss related attitudes. I also hope that this day will prompt those who are suffering alone to realize it’s okay to reach out for help; doing so is brave, not weak.
And you can make a difference with your social media shares too. Here’s how: The company Bell will donate $.05 toward mental health initiatives every time you send a tweet that includes the hashtag #BellLetsTalk. So, I will add the hashtag when I share this post on Twitter and urge you to do the same.
As well, if you are a Bell Mobility subscriber, every mobile, long-distance call, and text message that you make on Bell Let’s Talk Day will trigger a $.05 contribution from the company toward Canadian mental health programs.
Christy, I am so pleased that finally people are willing to talk about mental health and that government agencies are starting to listen. I know it’s not a glamour topic since, as you said, it’s invisible, but it is very real. I think Bell should be applauded for raising awareness of this very hurtful and damaging health issue.
Hi Lenie, how nice to see you here! I will join you in saying thanks to the agencies that are raising awareness with creative campaigns that draw the public. It’s not easy due to the invisible nature of mental illness but it’s starting the conversation rolling!
Christy and Clara, as a person who has dealt with a sister who is mentally ill all my life, I appreciate this post and all the good work being done. The invisible part especially stuck me. Thank you!
Hi Resa, Thank you for sharing your story as all family members are affected by the stigma associated with mental illness. Hugs to you and your sister and rest of family!
Great article and yes it is import ant to talk to those who you know… failure can led you down a spiral tumble… Hugs for sharing…
Rolly
Open communication is always a good thing. Thank you Rolly for stopping by here!
As there is a stigma on mental health illnesses, Christy, it’s so appropriate to highlight this on your post! The message from Clara Hughes is a great testimony… and a World Mental Health Day on October 10 will educate people on these issues. Best wishes and a great week ahead :) <3
Thanks Iris for explaining about October 10th here too. How nice to see you and to have your support for the important cause. HUGS and hope your week is a nice one full of smiles <3
Thank you, Christy. As these people are also marginalised, the least we can do is to try to understand them and empathise with them. <3 and Hugs
This was a great promo by Bell to create awareness. I think many eyes are being opened. :) Just dropping by sporadically while on vacay, but had to read your post! xo
I hope your vacation is going well, honey! Thanks for making time here xx (Are you on the beach yet?!!!)
Was at the beach today. Off to cruise tomorrow! I shall try and staff of the laptop, just checkin everyday. If you don’t hear a peep from me, consider me ‘locked’ out of my own website at sea. :( or :) hmm? LOL xoxoxo
Hehe! Enjoy your time away offline, Deb. So great you were at the beach, the dream destination!! Thinking of you now and smiling :)
Great post! Great to see
Great idea, as depression is highly misunderstood. I’m so glad you’re raising awareness.
I really like how you use your blog, Christy, to make people aware of important issues.
Hugs! That is exactly what I am trying to do. Your comment helps motivate me!!
Excellent, Christy :)
Hi there, if you’re interested in spreading awareness you may be interested in my new project I’m running – Let me know :)
Thank you Lauren. I just sent you an email and look forward to participating!