Bell Let’s Talk – Breakdown the stigma of mental illness

Bell’s second annual Let’s Talk day is on Wednesday, February 8. This day is intended to breakdown the stigma of mental illness by encouraging open discussion amongst families, friends and co-workers. Too often a diagnosis of mental illness has a stigma attached to it. By encouraging dialogue it is hoped that the stigma will be removed and people can feel comfortable openly discussing mental illness, just like they would any other illness.

The benefit of removing the stigma is to encourage those suffering from mental illness to seek help in managing their illness. People can also be better supported with their treatment goals when they are encouraged by those around them to stick to their treatment plans and to seek assistance from their health care providers when they have questions.

For each text and long distance call made on February 8, Bell will contribute 5 cents to programs dedicated to mental health. This may not sound like a lot but last year Let’s Talk day raised 3.3 million dollars! For more information please go to the Let’s Talk website at http://www.bell.ca/letstalk.

Together we can remove the stigma associated with mental illness and encourage our families, friends and co-workers to get the help and support they need.