Back in 2010 when Bell first announced its plans to support mental health initiatives, I wrote a post “Talking about un-mentionables.” I mentioned back then that “I grew up on the grounds of a children’s psychiatric research institute in London, Ontario, the son of a child psychiatrist.”
As a result, Bell’s commitment to support mental health is especially meaningful to me. I support Bell Let’s Talk Day without reservation and I encourage you to do so as well.
Through the years, cynics have asked why Bell’s brand figures so prominently in the materials. Why isn’t it just called “Let’s Talk” instead of “Bell Let’s Talk”?
One of the key elements of the initiative has been to reduce and ultimately remove the stigma commonly associated with mental health issues. “Help end the stigma around mental illness” is the first link on the Bell Let’s Talk web-page. Yesterday, Bell Let’s Talk and Queen’s University announced a $1 million gift, renewing the Bell Canada Mental Health and Anti-Stigma Research Chair.
Bell is one of the most widely held stocks, among Canada’s largest private sector employers and one the country’s biggest investors in infrastructure. Its media properties carry Canada’s most popular shows. What better way can there be to remove the stigma of talking about mental health than to attach the endorsement of one of Canada’s most valuable brands?
One in five Canadians will suffer from mental illness at some point in their lifetime; the stigma associated with it is cited as the number one reason that two thirds of them won’t seek help.
The Bell Let’s Talk website has ways you can help:
- Language matters: The words you use can make all the difference. Words can help but they can also hurt.
- Educate yourself: 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 stigma.
- Be kind: Simple kindness can make a world of difference. Whether it be a smile, being a good listener or an invitation for coffee and a chat, these simple acts of kindness can help open up the conversation and let someone know you are there for them.
- Listen and ask: Mental illness is a very common form of human pain and suffering. Being a good listener and asking how you can help, sometimes just even being there for people you care about, can be the first step in recovery.
- Talk about it: Break the silence. Mental illness touches us all in some way directly or through a friend, family member or colleague. Stories of people who have experienced mental health issues and who are doing well can really challenge stereotypes. Most people with mental health issues can and do recover, just by talking about it.
And today, take an extra step to raise awareness of mental health. Tweet a message with #BellLetsTalk .
Add the power of your personal brand, endorsing this important cause.