Educate Yo'selves

As a student, my job is to learn. But, lately, most of my learning has been outside of the classroom. Whether it's learning how to be a strong leader, a better advocate, how to take care of myself... the list goes on. I'm also just someone who loves to read and learn something new each day. I love learning more about Halifax, Canada, world politics, and history. I love learning new skills, nailing a new ukulele chord, or trying a new recipe. I think the human mind is fascinating, and I crave knowledge and understanding. I know not everyone has an appetite for learning like mine, but I still think it is important to take time to educate yourself on things that others might not have time or energy to teach you.

This is why I love mental health weeks, and days like #BellLetsTalk that get people talking and learning new things about how to interact with the world, and others around them. I have never experienced anorexia, or the depths of depression. I've never lived with bipolar disorder, or experienced body dysmorphia. I've never had suicidal thoughts, nor did I know how to help someone the first time they reached out to me for help. I do, however, know that it would have made my life a whole lot easier if people had understood a little more about my mental health challenges when trying to help. If people understood to open a window when I was having a panic attack, or if they knew that I just needed someone to be there. If people knew that I couldn't just stop scratching my skin when I am anxious - that dermatillomania is real and super irritating and frustrating for me. I can only imagine that other people struggling with different demons feel the same. Because when you are in a mental health crisis, the last thing you want to do is explain your illness to someone else. Educate yourselves. For those you know and love who may be struggling, or will struggle in the future. For yourself, because it's way less stressful to help someone when you understand just a bit better.

Educate yourselves, and don't forget to ask someone who is experiencing a hard time what they need. They'll let you know what they want you to do.