Mental Health Awareness

Imagine going through your daily life unable to see a solution to any of your problems. You cannot find joy in anything you do as you find it impossible to smile. You feel alone, isolated in negativity and unsure where to turn.

In Canada about 20% of people live their lives feeling this way because they fear people will not understand and not take them seriously. Almost half (49%) of people suffering from depression or anxiety have never received help because of this.

May 2 marks the beginning of the Canadian Mental Health Association's Mental Health Week. The goal is to "Get Loud" for mental health and raise awareness to end the stigma. CMHA's National CEO Dr. Patrick Smith believes getting loud means breaking the silence around mental health issues.

Breaking the silence is exactly what the company Bruce Power did yesterday as they started their campaign in support of mental health. To help spread awareness, Bruce Power will donate $1 every time the hashtag #BreaktheSilence is posted and shared. Their goal is to raise $80 000 this week! Along with Bruce Power, Bell Canada has been very active in the fight against mental health. The company has contributed over $100 million to varies foundations since 2011. Bell has raised much awareness with the hashtag #BellLetsTalk on social medias across Canada!

For Mental Health week I would like to provide you with a few facts and statistics about the stigma in Canada.

1. Mental illness can be treated!
2. Only 1 out of every 5 children who need mental health services get help.
3. Next to only accidents, suicide is one of the leading cause of death for young men and women between the ages of 15 and 24 in Canada.
4. About 4000 people die each year by suicide.
5. It is so much more than just feeling "sad".

Those battling mental illnesses must know they are not alone in the fight. Mental illness has impacted each and every one of us in some way. Whether is a family member, a co-worker or a friend, telling them to just smile and be happy will not help. Those struggling are looking for someone to talk to and support. They are looking for someone who will listen to them and most importantly a friend to help them through this difficult time.