Vancouver Whitecaps FC are proud to support our Premier Founding Partner for the fifth annual Bell Let’s Talk Day. Since 2010, Bell has committed $67.5 million to mental health initiatives in Canada. Today (Wednesday, January 28), Bell will donate an additional 5¢ to mental health initiatives for every:
- Text message sent
- Mobile & long distance call made
- Tweet using the #BellLetsTalk hashtag
- Facebook share of the Bell Let's Talk Day image
*For Bell Canada and Bell Aliant subscribers
Last year, more than 3 million tweets made Bell Let’s Talk the #1 Twitter trend in Canada and #3 trend worldwide. A total of 109,451,718 tweets, texts, calls and shares on Bell Let’s Talk Day resulted in Bell contributing $5.4 million to mental health initiatives across the country.
Mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and schizophrenia affect people of all ages around the world. One in five Canadians will experience a form of mental illness at some point in their lifetime (Canadian Institute of Health Research). Many people find ways to live with their illnesses, but negative stereotypes about mental illness and the discrimination that they face from others as a result is often more challenging than the illness itself. Only 49 per cent of Canadians said they would socialize with a friend who has a serious mental illness (Canadian Medical Association). Two thirds of those suffering from mental illness are too afraid to seek the help that they need.
While we cannot end mental illness, we can do our part to end the stigma surrounding it. Whitecaps FC are proud to once again support Bell in this initiative. Join us in the conversation today. Participate by sharing, tweeting, texting and talking for Bell Let’s Talk Day.
Five ways to help end the stigma around mental illness:
- Language matters – Words can help… but they can also hurt. Pay attention to the words you use.
- Educate yourself – Myths exist about mental illness that contribute to stigma. Learn the facts.
- Be kind – Small acts of kindness speak volumes.
- Listen and ask – Sometimes it’s best to just listen.
- Talk about it – Start a dialogue, not a debate.
Get connected with Bell Let’s Talk:
Web:letstalk.bell.ca
Twitter:@Bell_LetsTalk and #BellLetsTalk
Facebook:facebook.com/BellLetsTalk
