The fifth annual Bell ‘Let’s Talk’ day has raised millions of dollars in support of mental health initiatives across Canada.
The campaign, which is now in its fifth year, sees Bell donate 5 cents to mental health programs for every text message and mobile and long distance phone call made on the Bell system, and every tweet using the hashtag #BellLetsTalk.
The cause has prompted some people in our region to speak out about their own struggles with mental illness.
Kevin Smith, who was diagnosed with bipolar with psychotic episodes as a teenager, was in and out of hospitals for years.
“I had a hard time accepting my mental health diagnosis,” he confessed. “I'd tend to get manic instead of depressed. The importance of talking comes down just getting everything out in the open and starting a conversation on how to make things better.”
‘Let’s Talk’ Day was also publicly supported by some well-known personalities.
Olympian Clara Hughes, TSN broadcaster Michael Landsberg, and Comedian Kevin Briel came together for a conversation in a live webcast from a Toronto school.
“You can recognize these symptoms and indications within yourself. You can get the help to bring yourself back up,” said Hughes.
Bell Let’s Talk chair Mary Deacon says the goal is to keep reducing the stigma that has so often been associated with mental illness.
“Today is about taking that conversation about mental health to the next level and encouraging as many Canadians as possible to build awareness, acceptance, and action,” Deacon said.
One in five Canadians have some form of mental illness.
Mental health experts say that percentage is higher among the younger population.
“We're seeing a higher prevalence of anxiety and stress related issues,” said Jim Harris from the Canadian Mental Health Association.
Since the program has started, more than $67 million has been raised.
For an update on the total raised, go here.
