Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 37 Use accurate and sensitive words when talking about people with mental health and substance use problems. For example, speak about “a person with schizophrenia” rather than “a schizophrenic.” 4. Educate others. Find opportunities to pass on facts and positive attitudes about people with substance use and mental health problems. If people or the media present information that is not true, challenge their myths and stereotypes. Let them know how their negative words and incorrect descriptions affect people with substance use and mental health problems, and keep alive the false ideas. 5. Focus on the positive. People with mental health and substance use problems make valuable contributions to society. Their health problems are just one part of who they are. We’ve all heard the negative stories. Let’s recognize and applaud the positive ones. For example, did you know that Ron Ellis was living with depression at the height of his National Hockey League career? 6. Support people. Treat people who have substance use and mental health problems with dignity and respect. Think about how you’d like others to act toward you if you were in the same situation. If you have family members, friends or co-workers with substance use or mental health problems, support their choices and encourage their efforts to get well. 7. Include everyone. In Canada, it is against the law for employers and people who provide services to discriminate against people with mental health and substance use problems. Denying people access to things such as jobs, housing and health care, which the rest of us take for granted, violates human rights. People with mental health and substance use problems have a right to take an equal part in society. Let’s make sure that happens. Let’s Talk About Stigma continued cmha.ca Ten ways to boost your mental health A healthy mental health: a balanced life 1. Foster healthy, meaningful relationships. 2. Share humour. Laughter can go a long way to keeping us mentally fit! 3. Do one thing at a time. Learn to enjoy the present moment fully. 4. Enjoy hobbies. They will keep your brain active! 5. Volunteer within your community. You will help others and make yourself feel great at the same time. 6. Set realistic goals; reaching them will build confidence and foster a sense of satisfaction. 7. Exercise regularly to improve your psychological well-being and reduce depression, stress and anxiety. 8. Take a few moments each day: close your eyes, take a few deep breaths and unplug from your surroundings. This simple practice helps lower blood pressure and calms your mind. 9. “Collect” positive emotional moments. Recall times when you have experienced pleasure, comfort, peace or other positive feelings. 10. Each day, remember three things for which you can be grateful. An attitude of gratitude boosts our immune system. gnb.ca
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