‘It’s okay to talk’: Bell Let’s Talk Day highlights importance of mental health conversations in Saskatchewan

Wednesday is Bell Let's Talk Day, a national initiative encouraging conversations around mental health. Carla Shynkaruk has the story.

Wednesday is Bell Let’s Talk Day, a national initiative encouraging Canadians to speak openly about mental health.

In Saskatchewan, advocates say the day is especially important for people living with schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses that continue to carry stigma.

Kim Pratt knows firsthand how important support can be. She lives with bipolar disorder type 2 and says her family played a crucial role in helping her cope after her diagnosis.

“And without my family, I would be devastated,” Pratt told CTV News.

Pratt was diagnosed at 29 and now shares her lived experience as a presenter with the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan. She speaks to students and community groups across the province, hoping to increase understanding and encourage early identification of mental illness.

“Let’s think about being out of control with your mind and you can’t control it, and you know it. It’s not fun. Not being able to control your depression. It’s not fun,” she said.

• Get the latest news from Saskatoon, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

The Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan runs education programs in schools, post-secondary institutions, workplaces, and community settings. According to the organization, reaching young people is especially important, as symptoms of mental illness often emerge during adolescence or early adulthood.

“We present to grades seven and eight, grade nine through 12, colleges, universities, community groups, businesses, addiction audiences, hospitals, and First Nations programs,” according to Curtis Harman, who has been with the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan’s Partnership Program since it began in Saskatoon in 1999.

The Saskatoon office of the Schizophrenia Society opened in 1991.

Harman says the society’s goal is to reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help.

“Our goals are to reduce the stigma associated with major mental illness, promote treatment and recovery in the community, and let people know it’s okay to talk about your mental health,” he said.

While the organization receives some government funding, it relies heavily on fundraising to continue its work. One of its major initiatives, Singing with the Stars, has raised more than $350,000 over the past three years.

Advocates say learning the facts about mental illness and listening without judgment can help break down long-standing barriers.

“It is wellness. It’s not illness necessarily,” Pratt said. “I don’t suffer from mental illness. I live with it, and I love through it, and I view life through its lens.”

Today, Pratt holds multiple degrees and speaks several languages. She says her life is full and meaningful thanks to treatment, support, and people willing to have open conversations about mental health.

On Bell Let’s Talk Day, advocates hope those conversations continue long after the day is over.