It is now time for our daily look at Canadian Mental Health Week, presented by: Experience Camping!
As Mental Health Week continues, Tanya Brown, a women and family advocate with the Huron Women’s Shelter, is using the opportunity to bring attention to the deep emotional toll gender-based violence can have on survivors.
Brown said that while society has made progress in talking about mental health, many survivors still feel silenced and alone. She explained that abuse doesn’t just hurt someone physically, it can damage their confidence, their relationships, and their overall well-being.
Brown added that the younger generation is helping reduce stigma by being more open about mental health.
With that in mind, Brown noted there is still a long way to go in terms of reducing the stigma around mental health and gender based violence.
At the Huron Women’s Shelter, support is available 24/7 for anyone facing gender-based violence. Services include a crisis line, emergency shelter, counseling for women and children, safety planning, help with the legal system, and healing groups. The team also works with healthcare providers and other community groups to make sure people get the care they need.
For those suffering in silence, Brown offers this advice.
Mental Health Week runs from May 6th to 12th and encourages everyone to take care of their mental health, and to support others in doing the same.