Mixed Feelings About #BellLetsTalk Day

Today is #BellLetsTalk day.  Today is a day that the whole country comes together and makes social media posts to raise money for mental health initiatives in Canada.  There are a few points that give me mixed feelings about today.  The positives of today speak for themselves; money and awareness are raised.  But there are a few points that frustrate me about today.

Today is just one day. Nothing is really mentioned about mental health the other 364 days in the year.  Once today is over, no one really talks about mental health.  It also seems like status quo to use the hashtag today.  I know many people that have used the hashtag, but they still make comments about “getting over it” or “its not that bad”.  In my mind, if you are using the hashtag you should not be judgemental about people when they talk about their mental health.  If you’re going to be judgemental, maybe sit on the sidelines for this one.

It angers me that this day is needed.  This year is the 13th year of this campaign.  While we have made progress, we still have leaps and bounds to go.  I can promise you no one wishes to have a mental illness.  How many more years of this are we going to need before having a mental illness is as easy as diabetes or cancer to talk about?  When will people feel comfortable talking a day off for their mental health and saying it like they would if they had a cold or flu?

W is a huge reason I started this blog.  I want him to grow up in a world that its okay to talk about mental health, feelings and emotions.  I want him to learn and know that mental health is just as important as physical health, and there is nothing to be ashamed of.  I want him to live in a world free of judgement of mental health issues.  I was afraid to start this blog.  I’ve dreamed about being able to open up and talk about this for years.  I was so afraid of judgement, but now I really don’t give a shit.  Judge me if you want, that is a reflection of your character and not mine.

One of my favourite quotes is “Be the change you want to see in the world”- Mahatma Gandhi.  We need things to change.  We need people to stand up and tell their stories.  But most importantly we need to be compassionate and show empathy to the people that are struggling. 

Be kind and eat beef.

Shayla