I have written in the past that mental healthcare is the main line of business for my family. My older brother and my sister are both clinical psychologists, following in the footsteps of my father – a psychiatrist.
Bell Let’s Talk Day is about talking. It is a day for talking about something that makes many people uncomfortable. And as I have written for the past few years, we need to talk even more. Public perception is the leading reason that most of those living with a mental illness do not seek help. Bell’s willingness to have its brand associated with helping Canadians deal with mental illness is a brave and bold statement to open the national conversation about mental health.
This year’s ad campaign again highlights the need to watch the way we talk. The Bell Let’s Talk website suggests 5 ways to help end the stigma.
- Language Matters: Words can help…but they can also hurt. Pay attention to the words you use.
- Educate Yourself: Learn the facts and myths about mental illness. Be knowledgeable and help fight stigma with facts.
- Be Kind: Small acts of kindness speak volumes.
- Listen and Ask: Sometimes it’s best to just listen.
- Talk About It: Start a dialogue, not a debate.
This year, Bell Let’s Talk day is on January 27 – this Wednesday. Once again, Bell will contribute 5 cents for every Text message sent and every mobile & long distance call made by their customers on their networks. Bell will add another nickle for every Tweet using #BellLetsTalk and every Facebook image share – even if you are not a Bell customer.
Since 2010, Bell has committed $100 million to mental health initiatives in Canada.