School Days

Yesterday I shared my mental health story to a class of grade 9 students. Each time I present I come away feeling inspired and encouraged for the youth of today. They are knowledgeable, engaged and interactive.

The questions they asked were extremely insightful and poignant. One student asked knowing what you know now about mental health what would you say to your younger self about mental health. I would say that I wished they had this format when I was going to school. It would help me understand what was happening and what I was experiencing.

In my high school days I was just trying to fit in which was difficult because I was shy and introverted. I was also angry, moody and temperamental. In other words I was a shit.

Where I did fit in was with basketball. I was not much of a player and ended up being the team manager. The coach took a special interest in me and on several occasions stepped into my comfort zone to offer support and guidance. I appreciated this and still see him as one of my role models.

Another student asked how did your family respond when you told them about my depression. Both of my brothers were supportive of me and one admitted that he has had his own mental health issues.
My mother who is aged and losing her filter said, well you didn't get it from me. In that I countered with you cant give someone depression however ones behavior can contribute to causing depression. She has since in her own way been supportive.

I always encourage the students to have the courage to come forward and tell someone what they are feeling and seek out the resources and support they need.

A work colleague who I hadn't seen in a while saw me the other day and said have you lost weight and what have you been doing to lose weight. I said diet, exercise and positive life.

I posted about speaking yesterday on social media and one of my friends responded by saying he was proud of my work for mental health.

I am loud and proud for promoting mental health. My partner wishes I could be louder and prouder for her the same way I am for mental health.