Hinduja Raj M , Communications Volunteer
This could seem like a frequently talked about topic. The fact is, it still isn’t enough yet. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) states that, “1 in 5 people in Canada will personally experience a mental health problem or illness, in any given year”. Does that seem like a lot? It is!
Mental illness is not a taboo. It is often misunderstood and not spoken about due to fear of the stigma associated with it. It is very natural for us humans to feel mentally unwell. Mental illnesses can be well managed with the right therapy.
If you or someone you know is suffering please seek support from a professional. Social workers or counsellors have the amazing ability to listen to you with no preconceived notion. They are specialized in identifying the underlying mental condition. Addressing the issue with someone you can trust and feel comfortable with can lead to a healing pathway.
CMHA Ontario, in association with SCHC, offers a fun and engaging eight-week course to Scarborough residents needing support in managing life’s challenges. The Living Life to the Full (LLTTF) program focuses on topics relevant to coping with emotions and solving daunting problems, through fun and enjoyable activities.
A client of the program has said, "I now feel like I have more control over my life as I have learned new skills to help me deal with life challenges."
Caregivers play a significant role in assisting people with mental illness. It is important for caregivers to understand and appropriately assist their wards suffering from this treatable condition. The CMHA Ontario along with SCHC provides dedicated programs, especially to caregivers 55+. Mood Walks is a safe hiking program designed for caregivers 55+, to create positive relationships and increase social inclusion. It helps to improve their physical and mental well-being.
Participating in such group activities can promote a sense of inclusivity and raise the happiness index. Those downhill phases of life can sometimes over power the ability to think and act. Suffering all alone through a mental illness is not the solution. There are plenty of help and support systems available to combat a mental illness together.
SCHC has prioritized increasing access to and strengthening the delivery of coordinated community based mental health programming. These programs and our partnerships with organizations like CMHA, Cota and Fred Victor represent our ongoing commitment to improving mental health wellness for people of Scarborough.
If you or someone you know is looking for professional support, please reach out to us at 416-642-9445.