-What Can You Do?-

The issue of mental health has long been clouted with a negative connotation. It has been stereotyped into being the problem of the old lady down the street with dementia. "Not my problem," you say to yourself while walking away, trying to ignore her.

It is now. Mental health is not just for the elderly or those with obvious problems. It is a way of ensuring a happy, healthy life, in addition to your physical limits. Millions of people go unchecked every year, silently suffering because of the system that jeers at coming out with being diagnoised as depressed or the like.

Be part of the solution. Don't be the problem. Educate yourself and others on mental health today. This site specifically explores three topics: depression, self-harm, and suicide. While these problems are not all the issues, it is a start. Read and visit the sites below for more information.

Watch a video from the WHO that describes depression through simple terms.

Read a news article about a life taken by suicide after doctors ignore suicide concerns. Report Dlams Doctor at V.A. for Dismissing Suicide Risk of Patient Who Later Killed Himself

Time to Change is a website that also focuses on lessening the stigma surrounding mental health problems by encouraging people to speak up and share about their experiences. Visit their blog with first-hand accounts from people who have had these mental health issues to learn more.

Do Your Part

Complete as many actions as you can. Use this checklist to help.

Step 1: Explore this site
Step 2: Explore some of the linked websites and read some first hand accounts of people who have been through these issues.
Step 3: Create a support network with your family and friends. Let them know that you're there for them even through little things like giving compliments or helping them with small tasks.
Step 4: Ask three other people to do the same, so that we can spread the message.