Please, take time to talk about this

Talking about mental health might help people seek help, notes the North East Local Health Integration Network (NE LHIN) just ahead of Bell Let’s Talk Day on February 8.

The day invites Canadians to discuss mental illness to combat the stigma that keeps too many people from seeking help.

For every text message sent and every long distance call made on February 8 by Bell and Bell Aliant customers, Bell will donate 5 cents to programs dedicated to mental health (regular long distance and  text charges apply).

According to the Canadian Institute of Health Research, one in five Canadians will experience a form of mental illness at some point.

The Mental Health Commission of Canada says that two in three people suffer in silence fearing judgment and rejection.

Further, at some point, about 20 percent of Ontarians will experience a serious mental illness or harmful substance use, and 5 percent will have a serious problem with gambling.

Between 15 percent and 21 percent of children and youth in Ontario have at least one mental health issue.

Further, 10 percent to 25 percent of seniors experience mental health disorders.

The NE LHIN says it's supporting expansion of the CMHA’s toll-free “warm” telephone line (1-866-856-9276 ) and working to integrate 13 Algoma mental health and addiction agencies, along with more than 100 services.

Other efforts focus on a collaborative long-term mental health and addictions strategy called “Open Minds. Healthy Minds.”

The NE LHIN allocates approximately $70 million annually to 48 local providers who provide front-line community mental health and addictions services.