Wednesday, January 29 is Bell Let’s Talk Day – an annual campaign by Bell Canada to engage Canadians in the conversation around mental health.

Unfortunately, one of the biggest challenges for anyone suffering from mental illness is stigma, and the negative attitudes (prejudice) and negative behaviour (discrimination) attached to it.

The Canadian Mental Health Association says young people aged 15 to 24 are more likely to experience mental illness and/or substance use disorders than any other age group, and that 70% of mental health problems have their onset during childhood or adolescence.

Here are the five ways Bell Let’s Talk says you can help end the stigma around mental illness:

1 – Language matters

We’re all guilty of it. But using words like ‘crazy’, ‘schizo’ and ‘insane’ can be extremely hurtful to someone living with a mental illness, and only contribute to the existing stigma.

Instead, Bell Let’s Talk recommends saying, “person with schizophrenia” or “person with a mental illness.”

2 – Educate yourself

According to Bell Let’s Talk, 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. 

Here are some resources you can use to become better educated:

• Wood’s Homes’ Research Department
• Bell Let’s Talk
• The Canadian Mental Health Association
• The Government of Alberta

3 – Be kind

We all know the impact a simple smile can have on a ‘bad’ day. If you know a family member, friend or colleague having one of those days, ask them out for a coffee, send them a nice message or even just take the time to chat – letting them know you’re there can make the world of a difference.

In addition, Bell Let’s Talk recommends avoiding expressions like, “You’ll get over it” and “Just relax” – instead, offer your support and say, “I’m sorry you aren’t feeling well” and “You’re not alone.”

4 – Listen and ask

Sometimes, just being there to listen and ask how you can help can be the first step in someone’s recovery.

Bell Let’s Talk provides the following examples of what to ask:

• “I’m sorry you aren’t feeling well.”
• “I’ve noticed you’ve seemed down lately.”
• “Is everything ok?”
• “How can I help?”

5 – Talk about it

Bell Let’s Talk says it best – break the silence.

Mental illness affects each of us in one way or another through our family members, friends and colleagues and yet, despite the prevalence, a stigma remains. At Wood’s Homes, our hope is that seeking mental health treatment will one day be destigmatized. The truth can be hard to communicate, especially if you feel your truth is shameful – but there is nothing shameful about seeking help.

As Bell Let’s Talk says on its website, most people with mental health issues can and do recover, just by talking about it.

Wood’s Homes is proud to be a part of the Bell Let’s Talk conversation, to increase awareness, reduce stigma and change behaviours/attitudes about mental health issues. If you or someone you care about needs help, we’re here to listen.

For more helpful tips from Bell Let’s Talk, check out their Conversation Guide.