Help Raymond raise money

My mental health journey has been an on-going battle for most of my life, but I know I am not the only one struggling. I am participating in the BMO marathon to raise awareness for mental health and fundraise over $2,000 to support Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) youth mental health programs. 

I grew up struggling with low self-esteem, lack of motivation, and shame. I grew up thinking that the only way to cope with these lows was to work harder and achieve more to be happier. I ended up reaching a breaking point during my university studies and I sought help. 

In psychotherapy, I realized these symptoms were depression. Once I acknowledged and understood what I was struggling with, I felt empowered to take action to improve my mental health. But this wasn’t an easy process since mental health wasn’t discussed in our household and I was also fearful of sharing it with friends and due to the stigma. 

I’m happy that mental health awareness has stepped into the spotlight in recent years and I’m hoping to do my part to continue this trend. The day I accepted my depression and sought help changed my life and I only wished I had known to seek help sooner. My wish is to reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage others to take ownership of their (mental) health sooner. 

Thank you for your support, whether it's by donation, cheering me on, or doing the hard work of taking care of your own mental health. Thank you :)