Highlighting Mental Health Support
Background
The perception and stigma of mental health has changed
dramatically over the past century as our society has advanced its knowledge on the topic. In the early 1900s mental health was often regarded as non-existent. People who showed signs of mental illness were usually placed in prisons or asylums, and often subject to inhumane treatment.
In the early 20th century, with the rise of psychoanalysis, we saw a revolutionization of how people thought and began treating mental health conditions medically and through conversation to better understand the minds of those with mental illness.
As our understanding developed, mental health policies moved
from an emphasis on institutionalization to a system that depends on effective and accessible service delivered in the community. We began to see laws and policies put in place such as the Human Rights Code to protect one from experiencing discrimination due to mental health struggles.
Our DWIB community is here to support you and anyone you know that may be struggling by providing resources and creating a safe, inclusive, supportive environment. We encourage you all to please practice self-care and prioritize your mental well-being, and if you are struggling to please reach out.
Resources
Outside Resources
Hamilton Resources
Podcasts
Mental Illness Happy Hour
Therapy for Black Girls
Mentally Yours
The Brain Warrior's Way Podcast
The Happiness Lab
Inside Mental Health
Movies
Silverlining Playback (2012)
Girl Interrupted (1999)
Split (2016)
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Documentaries
Simply Complicated (2017)
Addiction
Take Your Pills
Of Two Minds
Nadiya Hussain: Anxiety and Me (2021)
Books
Love Your Mind by Belffy Books
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.
Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Brene Brown
Events
International Self-Care Day - Jul 24, 2023
International Overdose Awareness Day - Jul 31, 2023
International Pain Awareness Month - September, 2023
World Suicide Prevention Day - Sep 10, 2023
Occupational Therapy Month - October, 2023
Instagram Accounts
@headspace
@mentl.sesh
@dearmyanxiety
@themindgeek
@michellcclark
Businesses that Advocate for Mental Health
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH)
Disability Rights International (DRI)
Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC)
Schizophrenia Society of Canada
World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH)
World Health Organization (WHO)
AT&T
Stamp Out Stigma Campaign 2018
Spotlight: Karena Dawn
Entrepreneur, Mental Health Advocate
Karena Dawn is an inspiring entrepreneur and a passionate advocate for mental health. As the co-founder of Tone It Up, a renowned fitness and wellness brand, she has successfully built a thriving business that empowers women to lead healthy and balanced lives. However, Karena's journey as an entrepreneur has not been without its challenges. She has openly shared her struggles with anxiety and depression, shedding light on the importance of mental health and self-care in the entrepreneurial world. Karena's vulnerability and authenticity have resonated with countless individuals, encouraging them to prioritize their well-being while pursuing their dreams. Through her work and advocacy, she has become a beacon of hope, demonstrating that success and mental health can coexist, inspiring others to seek support and prioritize their mental well-being along their entrepreneurial journeys.