Stigma can often prevent those struggling with a mental illness from seeking the help they need. Developed in partnership with Dr. Heather Stuart, the Bell Canada Mental Health and Anti-stigma Research Chair at Queen's University, here are 5 simple ways to help end the stigma and initiate a conversation.
The words you use can make all the difference. Words can help, but they can also hurt. What would you choose?
When it comes to mental illness, education is key. Having the right tools, knowing the right words to use and understanding how to correctly speak with someone experiencing a mental illness can make all the difference. View the Bell Let’s Talk Toolkit
Simple kindness can make a world of a difference. Whether it be a smile, being a good listener or an invitation for a chat over coffee, these simple acts of kindness can help open up the conversation and let someone know you’re there for them.
Expressions like “You’ll get over it” and “Just relax” can hurt more than help. Instead, offer your support and say “I’m sorry you aren’t feeling well” or better yet, ask what you can do to help.
Mental illness is a very common form of human pain and suffering. Being a good listener and asking how you can help or simply just being there for people you care about can be the first step to recovery.
Here are a few examples of what to ask:
Two out of three people suffer in silence, fearing judgement and rejection. Being open to a conversation is the first step towards eliminating the stigma.
Know the facts, be kind, be a good listener and a friend. Be part of the conversation to eliminate the stigma once and for all.
Montréal, Thursday, January 27, 2022
On Bell Let’s Talk Day 2022, a new record was set with Canadians and people all over the world joining the biggest conversation about mental health.
Read more
Québec City, Wednesday, January 26, 2022
The CERVO Foundation is pleased to announce a major donation of $250,000 from Bell Let's Talk to facilitate the purchase of a 2nd neuromodulation device at the Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale which will help develop new avenues for mental health care.
Read more
Whitehorse, Wednesday, January 26, 2022
The Government of Yukon has partnered with Bell Let’s Talk and Northwestel to launch Strongest Families Institute’s mental health programming for Yukon children, youth, adults and families
Read more
Montréal, Tuesday, January 25, 2022
Five Canadian research teams receive major grants to address gaps in mental health care highlighted by the COVID-19 crisis.
Read more
