By Myrna Hutchinson
‘Mental health” and “mental illness” are increasingly being used interchangeably; however, they do mean different things.
Everyone has mental health, just like everyone has physical health.
On any given day, any one of us can struggle or have a challenge with our mental well-being (i.e., our mental health), just like we all have concerns with our physical well-being from time to time.
When we talk about mental health, we’re talking about our mental well-being: our emotions, our thoughts and feelings, our ability to solve problems and overcome difficulties, our social connections, and our understanding of the world around us.
In any given year, one in five people in Canada will personally experience a mental health concern or illness.
A mental illness is an illness that affects the way people think, feel, behave or interact with others. There are many different mental illnesses, and they have different symptoms that impact peoples’ lives in different ways.
If you think someone you know is suffering, don’t let them do it in silence. Talk to them. Start gently, be direct and remind them that you care. Often, asking for help can be the most difficult step.
Shoppers Drug Mart is holding Mental Health Awareness Days at their store in Elora on May 10 from 12 to 5pm and in Elmira on May 11 from 11am to 2pm. Please stop by if you would like to learn more about mental health or mental illness, inquire about local supports and resources, understand the various training opportunities available, learn how to talk to and support someone with a mental health concern, or just for some general knowledge. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Another simple step that you can take to show your support is to get involved in one of the many great community events happening locally in support of mental health.
Some upcoming events include a variety of mental health training courses, the #RunPhilRun event – special guest Jamie Warren (May 7 in Arthur), the Mental Wellness Resource Night (May 8 at Minto Clifford Public School), the Fork in the Road Music Festival (June 8 in Elora) or the #GetInTouchForHutch Community walk/run (June 29 in Arthur).
You don’t have to do this alone. We are stronger together.
If you are in crisis, go to your local Emergency department or call 911. Here 24/7 is an addiction, mental health and crisis service that is also available to take your call any time of the day or night. Reach them by calling 1-844-437-3247.
Let’s begin the fight and end the silence.