STOP the Stigma.

With all that has been going on around the word during the past year, with all the challenges we have had to face, when it comes to your mental health, NOW more than ever every action counts. Whether you are personally struggling or supporting someone, everyone can make a big difference.

Please join in the conversation on

Jan 28th –

“Bell Let’s Talk”

BellLetsTalk

How can you help:

Be open and approachable when someone is struggling, they seldom will ask for help so it’s important if you notice behaviour changes, reach out, validate their feelings. “I have noticed you’re not happy at the moment, It’s ok, but is there something I can do to help you?

Think first before you speak.

When Chelsea was first diagnosed with a Mental Illness, I found it very hard telling people, NOT because I was ashamed but because of the awkward reaction and possible discrimination of others. Mums were reluctant to talk about this with me, avoiding me in the playground. Chelsea’s friends treated her differently, she was no longer accepted into friend groups or included in playdates and Birthday parties.

Chelsea was suddenly viewed as badly behaved and lazy. People were scared of her as their perception of a Mentally Ill person was that of violence, when in fact Chelsea was more at risk of harming herself then she ever would someone else. We as parents were blamed for poor parenting!! People would say that we needed to be stricter and not let her “get away with that kind of behaviour” or say, “she will snap out of it” As if it was a switch, she or we had control of – IF only it was THAT simple.

Unfortunately, Mental Illness is looked upon with a negative stigma and misconception. People are accepted and cared for when they have a physical illness. People talk freely about someone’s physical illness in a caring loving way wanting to know how they can help. But unfortunately, Mental Illness is shunned and hushed.

STOP the stigma, Mental Illness is NOT contagious. By discriminating against someone it can actually make their illness worse, making it harder to recover from.

REMEMBER

• We all have a responsibility in creating a safe & secure environment for anyone suffering from Mental Illness.One that is inclusive, does not discriminate & is non-judgemental.

• We all need to challenge the STIGMA by learning the facts, avoid using language that puts the illness first & the person second, this is not their fault & shouldn't define who they are.

• Treat everyone with respect, unfortunately anyone with a Mental Illness will experience feelings of shame, self-doubt, low self-esteem & will have little or no self-confidence. Get to know the person they are, rather then the illness.

• Correct others when you hear them talking negatively about someone suffering from Mental Illness. Dispel the myths & misconception about Mental Illness.

• Someone suffering wants to be included & talked to with respect, you may not understand but it's ok to ask questions about how you can help & be there for them.

• Mental Illness is not something to be shameful of & certainly not something to hide away from.

Relevant Blog Posts

Bell Lets Talk 2020

You are NOT alone

Validation - Active Listening