Let's Talk

Today is Bell Let's Talk Day in Canada.  This was an initiative that was started in 2010 by Bell to raise funds for mental health programs but, more importantly to start conversations around mental health.  You would be hard pressed to find anyone that had not been affected by mental health either directly or indirectly in their lives.  Mental health does not discriminate.  It affects both male and female.  It affects people with financial stability and those that may struggle to get by.  It affects every race. It affects people from every religious background. It affects the young and the old.  Mental health connects people from these varying stations in a powerful way.  That is why days like this are so important.

For every text from bell customers, long distance phone call from bell customers, facebook shares and tweet (using #bellletstalk) raises five cents for mental health initiatives in Canada.  More importantly, it helps people share their stories with others and let those that may be struggling in silence know they are truly not alone.

I have lived with bi polar disorder probably since I was 17 or 18 years old.  I always knew something was a little off with my mind but, did not know anything about mental health or bi polar back then.  I just felt different. I did suffer in silence for a very long time and it was not until I learned to share, open up and ask for help that I was able to begin the healing process.  Through the support of my friends, family and my amazing wife, Jodi, I have gotten to a point in my life where I am no longer ashamed.  I have no issue sharing my story with others as I believe that in sharing part of my story helps others that live with mental illness to know that it is ok to not be ok. 

It is important to realize that mental illness does not just affect the person that is living with it but, also those connected to them whether it be friends, family or partners.  My journey through life with bi polar has affected a lot of people along the way and has often put an immense strain on relationships, jobs and physical health.  Today is very important for everyone affected by mental illness, not just those living with it. 

As I am up early this morning watching Milos Raonic attempt to take down one of the greatest tennis players ever in Rafael Nadal, I reflect on how fortunate I am to be here today.  I have had thoughts of ending my life thousands of times over the last twenty plus years but, I am still here.  I was able to find a way to continue fighting, pushing through the darkest of times.  It has not been easy but, I am thankful I am still here.

You are not alone

You are not weak

There is help

There are people that care about you

The light will shine through

You are worth it 

You deserve joy and happiness

Keep fighting 

Shawn