Mental illness. It can't be seen, it can't be heard, can't be scanned for in an X-ray, yet it affects Canadians and people all over the world. Just because it can't be proven does not mean it doesn't exist. Depression exists, and exists in a large number of people. 2 in 3 people suffer in silence, fearing that they will be judged on the mental illness.
There has become a stigma surrounding mental illnesses, and it has caused those affected to keep it to themselves. But that is the last thing people with mental illnesses should do. Because we can't physically prove someone has a mental illness, people on the outside may believe that the person is weak, not able to support themselves. But that is not the case.
At a conference at the University of Toronto back in October, I had a chance to sit in, listen and meet TSN Off the Record host and mental health awareness advocate, Michael Landsberg as he spoke about the importance of speaking out about mental illnesses, "Keeping it inside will destroy you." Having struggled from mental illnesses throughout his life, his experience with the battle against mental health has helped others stand up and find help.Mental health is the same as cancer, and the people affected needs the support from the people around. "The illness isn't in us because we are weak, it hasn't crept into us because we are weak, but because we are sick, sick like cancer is a sickness" explains Michael Landsberg, "We don't need pity, but need understanding.
The Bell Let's Talk campaign raises the awareness of mental health issues, encouraging those who are affected to speak up, and those who aren't affected to reach out to those who are. On January 28th, not only will people be able to raise awareness, but they will also donate to the cause.
This isn't just about famous people coming together to and sharing their experiences and showing support for the mental health cause, but something that can change lives. For someone who is affected in anyway by mental health, speaking and reaching out to others is the first step.
Mental illness is not caused because they are "weak." Look around you today, and try to see who has mental illness. You won't be able to see it. Talk to people and then maybe, just maybe, they will tell you their story. Give a helping hand to those who you think need company and share your own stories with others.
The first step for everyone, is to talk. So, let's talk. #BellLetsTalk
