Wednesday, January 25, is Bell Let’s Talk Day–a day to talk about mental health, reduce stigma, inspire each other to take action and help create a Canada where everyone can access mental health support. Let’s all wear blue and white to show our support for open dialogue surrounding mental health!
Starting a conversation about mental health can be challenging. However, you don’t need to be a mental health expert to help someone in distress. Just start talking! Engaging in conversations about mental health fights stigma and is the best way to start breaking down barriers.
- Reach out: Ask how the person is doing. Let them know that you have been thinking about them. Be specific about what is concerning you.
- Listen: Listening to someone and giving them a space to be heard is often one of the best things you can do for someone who is facing a mental health challenge.
- Offer support: Be compassionate. If the person’s behaviour is out of character, it may mean they are experiencing a mental health problem or undergoing stress. A comment like “just relax” or “you’ll get over it” can come across as judgmental. Instead, show the person that you’re there to offer support.
- Discuss resources: Support the person in coming up with a plan. They may have been through something like this before and know what helps them; or this might be the first time they have felt this way. In any case, they may need support locating resources and identifying coping strategies.
Let’s support one another, not only on this day, but every day—check in with a colleague, neighbour, family member or friend. A caring conversation could be instrumental in encouraging an individual to talk or get help if needed.
Share your actions using #BellLetsTalk to help inspire others to join the movement to create positive change. To learn about the different ways you can take action, visit Bell Let’s Talk.