Bell's "Let's Talk" Campaign Puts a Much Needed Face on Mental Health Awareness

One thing that I've noticed about every job that I've held is the measure of intolerance that exists in today's workplace towards people who are diagnosed with a mental illness. The unfortunate truth is that mental health issues aren’t given the same consideration that other medical conditions are given in today's world. I honestly can’t even count how many times I've heard co-workers make remarks such as "ADHD is nothing but an excuse."

There are some companies, though, who are trying to change this, such as Bell Media with their Let’s Talk campaign.

They help to increase mental health awareness trough sharing stories and videos of people's everyday struggles who have mental health and addictions issues. Another great aspect of this campaign is that the money earned from it is given back to the mental health community.

These five things below may seem small, but they can actually make a significant difference in another person's life.

1. Using the Proper Language

Why does using the proper language matter? When we say things such as "everyone has a little ADHD," or other crazy and degrading things.

What this is doing is taking away from the seriousness of mental illnesses. People who have a legitimate medical condition should never be made to feel alone or unworthy due to their medical diagnosis. We can rectify this through using the proper language when we speak about mental health issues.

2. Showing Kindness

If a person who is diagnosed with ADHD asks to have something explained a certain way, what is the right way to respond?

• Option 1: Treat them as if they are stupid for asking for something to be explained a certain way, or threaten to fire them.
• Option 2: Being empathetic and help them get a better understanding, to make them a better employee and person.

Obviously the correct answer is "Option 2," but unfortunately "Option 1" is what most people do.

3. Educating Yourself

Instead of using our preconceived notions about the way we assume something should be, we should actually be making a conscious effort to understand the actual facts to get a more accurate understanding.

4. Listening

This means using our active listening skills so that you not only hear what the person is saying, but they also know that you are listening.

5. Talking About It

One way to do this involves creating a work environment where people are comfortable talking about their day-to-day struggles. Talking about a mental health issue honestly isn’t fun—especially when there is so much stigma out there.

We need to create healthier workspace, so that everyone gets the proper support they need. Whether that support is in their personal life or professional life—because both are equally important.

In conclusion, many companies may not have the resources that a telecommunications company the size of Bell has.

Here are a few simple things that you can implement into your life, and also your workplace, in order to make that difference:

• If an employee needs to take personal time to see their doctor or therapist, they should be able to do so.
• Allow them to ask questions, without having a fear of being belittled.
• Offer things such as mental health first aid and mental health days.
• Have zero-tolerance for employees who discriminate against mental illness, regardless of the person’s job position.
• Let your employees get the medical or psychological support that they honestly need—by being supportive and giving them the time to get the proper help.

Every company and individual should be making a conscious effort to implement these things—not only in their personal life, but also into their workplace environment.