Day 7 - 29 -- Mental Health Conversations

Today was the tenth Bell Let's Talk Day, which addresses issues of mental health. This year decreasing stigma and emphasizing the need for improved access to service were heard a lot. Far more youth and young adults are self-identifying with a mental health issue than seen a decade ago. More conversations about such issues occur, particularly with younger age groups. With the growth in recognizing the importance of dealing with issues, comes the concern that available services cannot meet the increased need. Locally we often have a minimum two week wait for seeing someone for initial assessment and treatment plan. Newer online chat based programs exist for students in the province, with a toll-free phone number to speak to someone right away. These are great beginnings, but more health professional positions are required, which may require more training of counselors. Both program expansion and training avenues require funding and time. Efforts are moving in the right direction. It can't be an instant fix.

Sadly, hearings began this week as part of an investigation into the accessibility of services for a person with post-war PTSD who killed his family and himself. This is not an isolated situation. For many, such hearings can be major triggers that add to existing mental health challenges. In a small community such as ours, having people available for talking could address the mental health needs of the town and county residents.

In a 1-hour special about Bell Let's Talk Day, one statement really stuck with me. To decrease stigma, Howie Manell noted that we have to begin with 'baby steps and the first are words." Talking about this is what can legitimize the existence of mental health issues and the need for adequate support services. Two songs came to mind today to address the issues surrounding mental health. The first is a young Canadian artist who wrote a song to describe his experience with anxiety. The second is older, but was written when the artist was a younger man. It describes his early struggle with depression and feelings of worthlessness. Enjoy!

In my Blood -- Shawn Mendes

I'm a Loser -- John Lennon & Paul McCartney (Lennon's experience)