Defence Team members talk stigma |Bell Let’s Talk 2024
Video / January 23, 2024
Transcript
(WOMAN) Stigma can prevent people from getting help. What percentage of Canadians with anxiety or depression would you think don’t seek help because of stigma?
(MAN 1) I would say 25% to 40% of Canadians.
(WOMAN 2) Hopefully, it’s fewer than it was a decade ago, or even 5 years ago. But I think my best guess would be 30%?
(MAN 2) 80-90%.
(MAN 3) I’d say probably 95.
(MAN 4) I’d say like… probably like 60%?
(MAN 3) Yeah, 95 was kind of high. Maybe like 75. But I still think it ‘s pretty high.
(TEXT : 50% of people struggling aren’t getting the help they need.)
(WOMAN) What actions can you take to ensure your peers feel comfortable reaching out to available mental health resources?
(WOMAN 2) I think it’s really important to be a non-judgemental ear, get as much information as you can so you can help refer your peers to trusted sources for help.
(MAN 2) I think creating an environment where you’re pretty much creating a human aspect of everything, so… Maybe putting yourself in the situation of trying to understand that person and just sharing that environment, and creating a safer environment for everyone, where they can actually relate and possibly, you know, feel like they can come to you for, you know, advice or even just any kind of talk, kind of a thing.
(MAN 4) I’d say probably just reach out to them one-on-one, and sometimes, those conversations might feel uncomfortable, but you got to do those things to make sure that everyone, your friend group or even people that might just be acquainted with are doing all right.
(MAN 3) I’d just say build a rapport with whoever it is that you’re trying to suggest the service to because… it might go over better to come for somebody who you know cares about you, rather than just someone who’s just saying it because... for whatever agenda they may have. But yeah, I think it has to be a personal thing.
(MAN 1) Educating yourself and your team on the available resources through the Member’s Assistance Program or other resources in your place, and ensuring that there’s no stigma or perception of stigma when they reach out for those services.
(TEXT: If you, or someone you know is struggling, help is available. You can reach the Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program or the Employee Assistance Program by calling 1-800-268-7708 o or (Teletypewriter) 1-800-567-5803 for confidential support 24 hours a day/365 days a year.)