Ending stigma takes time but here is a list of three things that you can do to 💗
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1. Know the facts
Like trying to end any stigma it all starts with knowledge and understanding. There are some great websites out there. Please find some good resources for learning about mental health conditions below:
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https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
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https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-101
2. Choose your words carefully
We all need to be mindful that anyone can have mental health difficulties, no matter how well we think we know them. Even if it is coming from a place of love or wanting to relate to a love one with a mental health difficulty there are a few phrases that aren't that helpful for people to hear. For example, "I had a panic attack when I saw my credit card bill". If you did not literally have a panic attack then it can make someone feel like you are trivialising their mental health.
3.Talk and listenÂ
According to Mind, 1 in 4 of us have mental health difficulties. If your in a place to do so, simply talk to someone else about your experiences and the person your talking to might just open up themselves. The best way to end any stigma is to normalise it into our every day lives.
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