Day 4 - 219 -- Need for Compassion

Mental health -- what images does this bring to mind? Large proportions of Canadians fear being around someone with a mental illness; believe that mental health issues are an excuse to get special attention; and feel that people with such illnesses should not be in the workforce. Now, given that the vast majority of Canadian adults experience -- either self or family -- depression by the time they are 50 years old, it is difficult to reconcile the first beliefs listed here. The stigma that goes along with mental illness brings fear to people who should seek care, though are unlikely to do so. Fears of job loss, bullying, and losing friends and family are real and sadly seem to be justified.

Many programs exist to create greater understanding that these are illnesses, complete with biochemical and physiological changes. Creating an environment that enables people to become empowered to seek care is a major goal. Talking about mental health is becoming more common with youth and young adults -- based on what I've seen in the past 20 years and what research has shown to occur. Attitudes are changing. Health insurance offered by employers now often contains greater coverage for various treatment modalities. Ramping up the number of practitioners available to provide this care is the next step. I still struggle with what to call this -- mental health seems to segregate this from other health care needs. It is all about maximizing health and health care, regardless of the illness involved.

Last night I watched a movie that chronicled the (mental) health journey of Brian Wilson. Love and Mercy presented part of his life story in two distinct time periods -- in a non-linear fashion. It is a complex situation that arose in his early 20s and was exacerbated by drug use -- often seen as self-medicating with some disorders. Things got well out of hand before an illness was recognized. Granted, it was the 1960s and less was known about mental illnesses compared to current day. After a couple of decades of seclusion with an overpowering primary caregiver, he was re-diagnosed and was able to return to making music. The story made me think of vulnerability and all the negatives that carries. By showing us a single story from 1960s and 1980s and looking at the state of care in the 2010s, we have come a long way. We do still have far to go, so can't become complacent.

Two songs ran through my head -- one from the movie and one from a Canadian band. They each speak to the need for compassion and acceptance of people in mental illness situations. As the singer-songwriter of the first selection says, love and mercy to you all tonight. Enjoy!

Love and Mercy -- Brian Wilson

Brian Wilson -- The Barenaked Ladies