Review Of Let's Talk Day: Eliminating The Stigma Of Mental Health

In recent years, mental health has become more of a common topic of discussion, with an increase in awareness and recognition. This awareness has helped educate individuals about the various aspects of mental health and how mental illness affects a person's life. However, stigma and negativity surrounding mental illnesses still exist and continue to spread. In addition, stigma has also caused mental illness to be normalized, which causes individuals to feel invalidated, frustrated and alone in their struggle. With this, mental illnesses need to be destigmatized not normalized, in order to combat the mental health crisis. The stigma of mental illnesses has caused others to forget the seriousness and severity of it, especially those suffering from it. Eliminating this stigma would help in educating others and further recognize mental illnesses as any other

During one day in January, national celebrities, such as Clara Hughes (a six-time Olympic medalist) and others invite Canadians to join the conversation about mental health and the stigma surrounding mental illnesses. Bell uses the day to raise money for mental health research and community initiatives by donating 5 cents for messages sent on the Bell network, thus raising 5–6 million dollars each year” (Stuart, 2016, 7). This program is an example of how destigmatizing mental illnesses has helped create and implement more services and resources. It does not just teach others about the various aspects of mental illnesses but also talks about the stigma. Along with this, money is raised for mental health research and other community initiatives. Services and resources do not only help those suffering but also help reduce the negativity around getting treatments that are necessary for individuals to live productive