bell let's talk day
Today is #BellLetsTalkDay and whether you choose to believe in all the hype of the day or comment on the sincerity of it, I think more than anything it’s important to bring light to mental health and how it affects so many of us.
Every year more and more people are talking about mental health in a more candid way. Now, more than ever with a global pandemic that has lasted close to a year (I still can’t believe it), we have no choice but to make it a priority. Becoming a mom for the first time and doing most of it through a global pandemic has not been easy. It was impossible to not feel deflated, frustrated, scared, and anxious throughout this past year.
I am so thankful to have the most amazing husband, family, friends, and colleagues as well as an online community that always lifts me up. Things have not been easy and I know this is the case for everyone. We are dealing with something we could have never prepared for. There are so many unknowns. People are losing family members, friends, and loved ones every day.
People feel isolated, scared, and alone. For me, one of the parts I struggle with the most is not seeing an end to all of this. Like everyone else, I just want to be able to see the people i love and for them to be able to spend time with Otis and vice versa.
Every day I am also reminded of how lucky we are. Pete and I are beyond lucky to both still have great jobs, to be able to put food on the table, and for our family to be healthy and safe right now.
The biggest thing for me has been taking things day by day. Of course, some days are better than others and we can’t help but feel down given the current state of the world. Overall, I am still looking at life with as much joy as optimism as ever and almost feel that it’s something I need to focus on more than I ever have before.
I am using my platform to bring a little joy and sunshine into people’s lives as best as I can. I will always do my best to be a good friend and person who checks in with people, makes time for them, and lets them know how much I love them.
I am always here if you need me. I have learned that it’s okay to not be okay some days, and we all just need to take things one day at a time. Thankfully for a lot of us, we have so much to be grateful for, and for those going through mental struggles, family issues, and overall hardships my heart breaks.
I will continue to share as many useful posts in hopes they might be something that makes you smile!
Everyone has a different idea as to what makes them feel good every day. I was thinking a bit about what has been lifting my spirits lately and here are a few of them!:
10 things I do to feel better on days that feel tough:
Write things down; I always feel better after writing down my thoughts, a to-do list, or doodles of my favourite quotes & lyrics, Regardless of what you’re writing, I think physically writing in a notebook can be so calming.
Go for a walk; We go for a walk pretty much every day and it has truly been more important than ever especially since having Otis. Even during the darkest times in the pandemic, it was the only constant we had. & during the freezing weather, the sunshine is pure joy.
Take some deep breaths; Even if it’s just for a minute, I’ve been trying to just calm myself with deep breaths if I feel frustrated or deflated. I find it just brings me back to the good things.
Listen to music or a podcast; I’ve made many a posi playlist on Spotify and there is nothing like dancing to your favourite songs. I also love to listen to a soothing podcast while I work or before falling asleep
Chat with/cuddle Pete; I always vent to Pete when I feel down or need to get it all out. I always feel better after having a good chat. Oh, and a hug. If you’re able to get one you most definitely should every day.
Play with Otis; Our babe is at such a fun age where he’s really starting to play more. Every day I make sure I take time to turn the devices off and just play with him. I love watching him explore and use his toys in new ways, and of course, all the things he plays with around the house too!
Make plans/Have something to look forward to; I hate not being able to do this the traditional way but whether it’s a phone date, facetime, fun dinner, or walk - I like to make a little plan every day for something I know will lift my spirits.
LOL while watching TikTok; I know this sounds kind of silly but I friggin’ love tik tok and it honestly makes me laugh so hard. Pete and I watch them before bed sometimes and just cackle. I love sending my fave ones to friends too!
Put on red lipstick; Honestly, this just always works for me. Today I was feeling kinda blah and I put on a bold lip and felt ready to conquer the world. It’s the little things right now that lift our spirits up and I am always down for a little lipstick lovin’
Remember, tomorrow is a new day!; This is something I say basically every day at this point. A lot of days are still really good but some are tough. When the days are tough I just remind myself tomorrow is a new day and will bring better things.
Podcasts, Books, Apps, Websites & Helpful Resources:
Podcasts: nothing much happens / the mindful kind / happier / anxious in austin / the nod
Books: maybe you should talk to someone / little panic / untamed / to call myself beloved /you are the one / the power of moments / furiously happy
Apps: shine / calm / headspace / happify / moodfit /
Websites: greenspace / headsupguys / bell let’s talk / camh
End stigma in 5 simple ways
Helping to end the stigma around mental illness can help people seek the help they need and create positive change. One of the biggest hurdles for anyone suffering from mental illness is overcoming the stigma of having a problem and asking for help. It is the number one reason why two-thirds of those living with a mental illness do not seek help.
Developed in partnership with Dr. Heather Stuart, the Bell Canada Mental Health and Anti-stigma Research Chair at Queen’s University, here are 5 simple ways to help end the stigma that keeps too many who struggle with mental illness from seeking the help they need:
Language matters: the words you use can make all the difference.
Educate yourself: knowing the facts and myths about mental illness can be a great way to help end the stigma.
Be kind: simple acts of kindness can help open up the conversation and let someone know you are there for them.
Listen and ask: being a good listener and asking how you can help can be the first step in recovery.
Talk about it: mental illness touches us all in some way directly or through a friend, family member, or colleague. Most people with mental health issues can and do recover, just by talking about it.
I hope you’re okay. I am thinking of you + sending you love! Today and every day.