Today is Bell Canada Let’s Talk Day – an initiative to encourage people to Get Loud about mental health, in order that they not suffer in silence.

In the first week of January, Sammy Losee took the helm of our instagram account, and when she signed off, she shared these words.

Being there for each other is a huge part of all of us being “well”. I have a lot of support from a lot of people around me and for that I’m very lucky. Some do not. It’s really important to try to be there for others no matter what their struggles may be. Whether you deal with depression, anxiety, other mental illness, addiction, health problems, racism, gender dysphoria or any number of other stresses that may affect your overall wellness, it’s important to talk about it. Pick someone you trust and talk. You don’t have to feel alone ever. Our community is such a great one. Reach out when you need someone and reach out when you see someone else in need. Much love sent to you all!

Is this easy? Is there a manual or a playbook?

As with everything important, of course not.

But, I take heart in another meditation from Richard Wagamese’s book, Embers.

Sometimes people just need to talk. They need to be heart. They need the validation of my time, my silence, my unspoken compassion. They don’t need advice, sympathy or counselling. They need to hear the sound of their own voices speaking their own truths, articulating their own feelings, as those may be at a particular moment. Then, when they’re finished, they simply need a nod of the head, a pat on the shoulder or a hug. I’m learning that sometimes silence really is golden, and that sometimes, “Fuck, eh?” is as spiritual a thing that needs to be said.

 

Takes the pressure off, doesn’t it?

We don’t need to offer solutions. Just space.