News & Events 

A new year means new years resolutions are starting to take effect. Did you make a resolution this year?

How about making mental health a priority this year? Whether that’s towards your own personal struggles or making yourself more informed or supportive this year towards those struggling.

Bell Let’s Talk Day is an incredible campaign designed to support initiatives such as these, and happens each year on January 30^th.  Since 2010, Bell Let’s Talk has raised 93.4 million dollars for mental health initiatives.

We explored their website and found 5 excellent tips on how we can begin ending the stigma surrounding mental health. More than that, how we can continue the conversation beyond January 30^th.

We have outlined these tips below and expanded upon them to explore how they can be implemented specifically for anxiety. We highly recommend sharing this article with your friends and family so they too can become better educated and ensure we all keep talking about it.

1. Language Matters

“The words you use can make all the difference. Words can help, but they can also hurt.”

It is not uncommon for sufferers to hear:

• “why don’t you just be happy?”
• “think positive thoughts”
• “stop worrying”

While these suggestions may come from the right place, they may not always be perceived as such.

Instead, try:

• Asking how they are feeling that day and if there is something you can do to bring happiness into their life.
• Surrounding them with positivity, or things they love.
• Understanding what makes them anxious. Try to help.

2. Educate Yourself

“When it comes to mental illness, education is key. Having the right tools, knowing the right words to use and understanding how to correctly speak with someone experiencing a mental illness can make all the difference.”

Did you know there are several different types of anxiety?

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Social anxiety
• PTSD
• Agoraphobia
• OCD
• Panic disorder, and more.

Understanding the type of anxiety you or your loved one suffers from can help you learn why or how they may respond to certain scenarios, how their mood may be affected, what triggers their anxiety, etc.  

3. Be Kind

“Simple kindness can make a world of a difference. Whether it be a smile, being a good listener or an invitation for a chat over coffee, these simple acts of kindness can help open up the conversation and let someone know you’re there for them. Expressions like “You’ll get over it” and “Just relax” can hurt more than help. Instead, offer your support and say “I’m sorry you aren’t feeling well” or better yet, ask what you can do to help.”

Patience is key. We recognize that it can be incredibly difficult at times to be the support system for those struggling. We understand that you may get frustrated at times. Try your best to be kind and patient. Remember…it’s about understanding why they react a certain way, not necessarily agreeing with it.

4. Listen and Ask

“Being a good listener and asking how you can help or simply just being there for people you care about can be the first step to recovery.”

Sometimes, your presence is all it takes. Having someone to trust. Someone they know won’t impose judgement or criticism.

5. Talk about It

Break the silence. Two out of three people suffer in silence, fearing judgement and rejection. Being open to a conversation is the first step towards eliminating the stigma.

Let’s make sure we KEEP talking about it. Nobody should suffer alone.

Want to show your support today? OKME Pin is a little pin on a big mission. The pin can be worn by those struggling with mental health challenges, or by those who want to show their support of mental health struggles. Check out their website for more details and how you can obtain your pin today!