Did you know that one in two people struggling with their mental health are not getting the help they need? Or that more than 200 people in Canada attempt suicide every day? These are some of the shocking statistics that you can learn from the Bell Let’s Talk 30 seconds video:
Bell Let’s Talk Day is today, Wednesday, January 24. We are joining in and committing to take meaningful action to create real change in mental health. Since 2011, Canadians and people around the globe have joined in the world’s largest conversation around mental health on Bell Let’s Talk Day. Together we have taken big steps to reduce the stigma around mental health issues, inspire one another to take action, and help create a Canada where everyone can access the mental health support they need. But it is clear more needs to be done. Real change is needed.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Let’s create real change. Take action all year long. You can do this by keeping the CHANGE acronym in mind:
- Choosing a mental health organization to learn about or support
- Helping a friend struggling with their mental health by learning how to support them
- Asking about how your school, workplace or community is creating change for mental health
- Nurturing your own well-being by practicing and learning mental health strategies
- Getting involved in a mental health initiative or organizing an event to support mental health
- Engaging in conversations about mental health to fight stigma
HOW WE CAN SUPPORT YOU
Circle of Care supports the Bell Let’s Talk campaign, which aims to create real change for mental health in Canada. We care about your well-being and we want you to know that you are not alone. We have a mental health support program for all PSWs and Homemakers: the Beyond Silence App. This app is a mental health ‘coach in your pocket’ that provides information, resources, and peer support from fellow healthcare workers.
The Beyond Silence App has many features to help you manage your mental health, such as:
- Tracking your wellness and setting goals for change
- Accessing mental health information and resources on topics such as trauma, burn-out, moral injury, improving sleep, and more
- Reaching out for confidential help from a trained peer support provider
The Beyond Silence App is free, confidential, and available 24/7. You can download the app for free on your personal or work mobile device and access it anytime you need it. For more information, please visit the portal at https://psw.circleofcare.com/index.php/health-safety/wellness-at-work/
We encourage you to take advantage of this service and prioritize your mental health and well-being. You are not alone, You matter and there is help available for you.
What’s next?
Let’s kick off a year of action together and show support for all those who live with mental illness. Together, we can create a space where everyone can get the mental health support they need. Watch the Bell Let’s Talk 30 seconds video and share it with your friends, family, and colleagues. Use the hashtag #BellLetsTalk on social media and join the conversation. Remember, you are not alone. You are part of a community that cares. Together, we can make a difference.
We also encourage you to participate in Bell’s Self-Care Activity to promote positive mental health and well-being. Challenge yourself to complete as many self-care actives that you can:
Click here to access the activity
Additional Resources for Help
You can also speak to a trusted health professional, including – but not limited to:
Bounceback
Managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Bounceback provides a free skill building program that supports your mental health.
Connex
Free and confidential health services information for people experiencing problems with alcohol and drugs, mental illness or gambling.
211 Ontario
Information and referral for community, government, social and health services, including mental health resources across Ontario.
Of course, if you’re not comfortable speaking to a professional or stranger, reach out to a loved one and talk about how you’re feeling.