Help Andrea raise money

Mental health isn’t typically something we talk about. Sometimes you see it, most times you don’t. That’s the problem.

It’s hard to understand why we are comfortable talking about certain types of pain, that which is physical, obvious, ‘rationale’ – that makes it ‘real’ – right? Wrong. Not being able to see the pain or understand the signs of mental illness is where we still have a gap. We see someone with a cast on an arm – it likely means it's broken. We ask sincerely “Are you ok? Does it hurt? Do you need help carrying your groceries?”

A friend in need, dealing with depression, struggling with anxiety, coping with too much…may not always have a 'tell' – or at least it may not be as obvious. The thing is, when you are in pain, physical or mental, (which many times lead to both) those dealing with it may have difficulty expressing or sharing it. Friends and family may not know how to ask or show they care. Talking about it, is important. That is the conversation that must happen, let’s start.

I am a grand-daughter, daughter, sister, wife, aunt, cousin, daughter-in-law, friend, neighbour, colleague, volunteer who cares. I don’t know what it is like to live with mental illness, but I see how it impacts those I love and the ones that love them. That is why, I do what I can.

This year more than ever, we need to support each other and members of our community that may be dealing with difficult situations, juggling work, life at home and all the different dimensions that it now represents.  We are all trying to find ways to adjust to the new 'normal'.  We can be frustrated, scared, anxious, lonely, isolated, confined...there are so many different emotions that we are all experiencing.  Recognizing them and talking about them will help.  

Thank goodness that we have access to the amazing programs at The Royal Ottawa.  We couldn't do it without all their support, the numerous volunteers, the donors and the entire community.  Mental health matters and talking about it does make a difference.  

I am so grateful to my co-captains @laurenvandenberg @jillianporterkelly and @goranafilipovic for their dedication and passion for this team and its efforts.   I am especially grateful to those who are supporting us either by participating, spreading the word or donating.   Thank you.  

And if you ever need to chat – call me…I am here and when I see you around the office – when I ask how you are doing…I really mean, “how are you doing”?

 Andrea