The pain caused by mental and physical illness can be equally overwhelming, yet few people truly understand this. It’s ironic when our grandparents claim that in ‘their’ time, no one had depression or anxiety, and accuse millenials of being dramatic. The truth is, mental health wasn’t taken seriously back then, and people were often too ashamed to discuss it. Additionally, many of the issues we face today are the consequences of problems that began decades ago.

We have no idea what emotions might be hidden behind someone’s smile, yet we’re often quick to judge. We don’t know what that person has been through or is currently facing, but we still jump to conclusions. Is this wrong? Absolutely.

There are many types of mental illness, and if someone is struggling with one, it doesn’t mean they’re “crazy”. Their internal wounds can be so deep that no one on the outside can fully grasp them. These struggles are often misunderstood, especially the severity of the situation. People suffering from depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders sometimes take their own lives to escape their pain. Globally, about 800,000 people die by suicide each year.

Many young actors battling depression or students overwhelmed by academic pressure take their own lives because they feel their efforts are meaningless. Recently, a well-known indian actor died by suicide due to depression, prompting a surge of social media posts highlighting the importance of mental health. My question is, why does it take someone’s death for people to recognize how crucial mental health is? Our focus should be on saving lives, not losing them.

We play a significant role in the lives of those around us. But have we ever taken the time to sit down with our family or friends to talk about our mental health? Often, we haven’t, because stereotypes like “having a mental health issue means i’ll be labeled as mad or crazy” prevent us from adressing these serious topics.

Friends, it’s time to reflect on our own lives and encourage others to do the same. Identify the issues and work on improving them. Mental health becomes a problem when it’s neglected and stigmatized, but we have the power to remove that stigma and discard it.

5 Effective Ways to Challenge the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health

Around one in five Canadians experience mental illness each year, making it crucial to work together to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health. Whether it’s the fear of being judged for seeking therapy or the inability to talk openly about personal struggles, this stigma persists.

Many still see mental health struggles as a sign of weakness, leading to negative perceptions of therapy or treatment. In reality, mental health issues are widespread, and acknowledging the need for help is both courageous and necessary for mental wellness.

The stigma around mental illness can limit access to healthcare, cause social isolation, and make it hard to speak up about personal challenges, leading to greater feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Therapy is a valuable tool for improving mental health.

Hints and Strategies for Reducing the Stigma around Mental Illness

1. Educate yourself on Mental Health: Raising awareness is one of the most powerful ways to challenge the negative stereotypes surrounding mental health issues. This involves learning about different mental health conditions, their associated symptoms, and the available treatment options. By increasing your own understanding, you can help reduce the fear and confusion that often accompany discussions around mental health.
2. Share your Experiences: Speaking openly about your personal experiences with mental health is another way to help break the stigma. This can contribute to normalizing conversations around mental health and encourage others to speak up as well.
3. Use Inclusive Language: When discussing mental health, it’s important to use language that is inclusive and respectful. Avoiding words or phrases that stigmatize or stereotype mental health can help create a more supportive and welcoming environment for those who are struggling.
4. Support Mental Health Programs: You can support mental health initiatives in your community or workplace by advocating for mental health policies, donating to organizations that promote mental health, or participating in events that raise awareness of mental health issues.
5. Normalize Seeking Help: Encourage open discussions about mental health treatment. Support individuals in seeking care when they need it, and share information about mental health services available in your community.

Where to Find Information and Support

There are many resources and support options available to help you or someone you know manage mental health concerns. Here are a few examples:
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) offers a range of mental health services, including therapy, support groups, and educational materials.
Talk Suicide Canada provides 24/7 crisis support throughout the year.
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers round-the-clock mental health support. Check with your employer for details on the services available to you and your family.