Living with mental illness is a challenge even on a good day, adding in isolation during a pandemic makes it unbearable. In this episode I share some of my experience with it, I share stories from others, and we discuss what changes need to take place in order for mental illnesses to be taken just as seriously as physical illness.
If you or someone you know is living with a mental illness, please be sure to check out these resources:
CMHA
https://cmha.ca/find-your-cmha BounceBack: https://bouncebackontario.ca/
A free, guided self-help program that’s effective in helping people aged 15 and up who are experiencing mild-to-moderate anxiety or depression, or may be feeling low, stressed, worried, irritable or angry.
ConnexOntario: 1-866 -531-2600 or www.connexontario.caFree and confidential health services information for people experiencing problems with alcohol and drugs, mental health and/or gambling. Available 24/7.
Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566Suicide prevention and support.
LGBT Youthline Ontario: 647-694-4275 + https://www.youthline.ca/ (chat, text and email currently available)Ontario-wide peer-support for lesbian, gay bisexual, transgender, transsexual, two-spirited, queer and questioning young people.
Assaulted Women’s Helpline:
24-hour telephone and TTY crisis line for all women in Ontario who have experienced any form of abuse.
Seniors Safety Line: 1-866-299-1011Provided by Elder Abuse Ontario, the Seniors Safety Line provides contact and referral information for local agencies across the province that can assist in cases of elder abuse.