Open and honest conversations about mental health and mental illness are crucial to the well-being of all Canadians. However, we know that this year has looked much different than a lot of us could have ever expected. With the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, now more than ever we know that we need to find new, and different ways to maintain a state of positive well-being for ourselves and our loved ones. In light of Bell Let’s Talk 2021, the Canadian Mental Health Association - Hamilton Branch, has put together a 4 week virtual webinar series focused around Bell’s “5 Ways to Help”.

These free and virtual webinars will be co-hosted by Nick Petrella, a Community and National advocate in Mental Health and Wellness. In 2010 Nick was diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety so knows all too well about how these small and simple acts can have a profound impact on someone’s recovery. Nick is a former recipient of St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton Spirit of Hope Award and is currently a Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health 2020-2021 Face of Mental Illness. Nick’s ability to share openly and authentically is what he is best known for, and the opportunity to join him in conversation will be one you do not want to miss!

Please join us for one, or all, or the following FREE webinars:

(1) Your Words Matter – Wednesday, January 6th 2021 (12:00 - 1:00 PM)

When talking about mental health and mental illness, the words we choose matter. They can make all the difference in both helping and hurting someone. In this webinar, we taking a deeper dive into what we can do to challenge the existing stigma and reshape how we talk about mental health and mental illness.

(2) Get Educated – Wednesday, January 13th 2021 (12:00 - 1:00 PM)

Getting educated on mental health and mental illness can make the world of a difference. Join us to learn about the different diagnoses, treatment options and what you and your loved ones can do to foster positive mental well-being.

(3) Listen, ask questions and always, be kind – Wednesday, January 20th 2021 (12:00 - 1:00 PM)

Small (and big!) acts of kindness can have a profound impact of someone’s mental health. One of the best tools for supporting someone is being a good listener and letting people know you care about them. Join us to discuss about how you can have a positive impact on someone’s journey to recovery as well as information on both local (Hamilton) and National resources.

(4) Break the Silence – Wednesday, January 27st 2021 (12:00 - 1:00 PM)

The statistics show us that 2/3 Canadians suffer in silence due to fear and rejection. Today is all about breaking that silence. Join us to discuss about the importance of asking for help, sharing your story, and formal and informal opportunities to do so.

For more information, contact: amyers@cmhahamilton.ca

Zoom link will be sent out the morning of the webinar via Eventbrite.