“Depression and anxiety are on the rise, and there is a greater need for practical wisdom and helpful tools. It is in sharing our stories that others come to see that they are not alone.”
~ Gemma Stone ~
This is the biggest gift I saw come from the Bell Let’s Talk day on February 8th. With the likes of influential, strong, driven people such as Off the Record host Michael Landsberg and Olympic Athlete Clara Hughes sharing their own personal journey through depression.
“Whether it be just a conversation or a documentary, it opens up a conversation. You feel less lonely if you are experiencing this and you see other people talk about it. When you hear people talk about it in a way they are not embarrassed, or their not ashamed and they say “yeah I suffer from depression. And it tormented me for a long time”, and they don’t sound like it is something they’re ashamed of. It makes such a difference.” Michael Landsberg said in an interview on CTV prior to his documentary “Darkness and Hope – Depression, Sports & me”.
Just to share one person touched by this – a message shared on my facebook page: “Michael Landsberg had some pretty high profile athletes on the show, including (of course) Clara Hughes. It amazed me how much people hide their true feelings, how hard they struggle and so much of it resonated with me. I have long felt that I’ve been struggling with depression, but I often have such wonderful, positive days, that it left me feeling like I was just a whiner and should just suck it up for the bad ones. Listening to these people, really hit home for me. I was able to understand myself so much better.”
This morning I met with a young woman, frozen with anxiety and depression. She arrived visibly anxious and vulnerable. She left, calm, hopeful and with tools.
Why?
Because I shared my story, I listened without judgment and shared tools and resources to help her. We made a commitment for her to make an appointment with a doctor, and she left with a smile of hope on her face.
Unfortunately, the system in place has many holes. People are on long wait times to see counselors and receive therapy, are released from hospital after a suicide attempt with little follow-up and support, and are left to advocate for themselves when in a place of darkness. People suffering from depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and many other mental illnesses are still met with judgment from the system that is supposed to be there to support. Thankfully, there are many mental health professionals who approach therapy with an attitude like Judith S. Beck, in her book “Cognitive Behavior Therapy – Basics and Beyond” she states:
“I strive to demonstrate all the basic ingredients necessary in a counselling situation: warmth, empathy, caring, genuine regard, and competence. I show my regard by making empathetic statements, listening closely and carefully, and accurately summarizing her thoughts and feelings.”
I am proud to be an advocate for depression, anxiety and mental illness as a whole. I am proud and not ashamed that I suffered major depression and panic disorder, and still have bouts of both.
Mental illness is NOT a weakness, it is a disease, an illness that impacts over 6 million Canadians.
Let’s keep the conversation going.
You are not alone. You are loved.
I also think this is a great opportunity to share my new logo, and vision for SimpLee Serene. I am putting my stake in the ground, and my commitment to provide support, empowerment and advocacy for depression and anxiety.
Support people through peer mentor programs, one on one coaching, speaking, resources, and inspiring stories.
Empower people to bravely step through their depression and anxiety and realize they are not alone.
Advocate to reduce the stigma around mental illness, including the annual Going Blue 4 U campaign: supporting and bringing awareness to crisis lines across Canada.
Ultimately, I wish to instill the values of kindness, compassion and gratitude in the face of darkness. To help people to know that you are not alone, you are loved and there is hope.
Hugs & Love
