There's an emphasis on the importance of talking about mental health and removing stigma in Chatham-Kent this week.
Mental Health Week was celebrated Wednesday during a flag raising at the Civic Centre hosted by the Mental Health Network of Chatham-Kent (MHNCK), Bell Media, and the municipality.
MHNCK Executive Director Kelly Gottschling says the focus this week is on removing the stigma associated with mental illness.
"It is important for people to realize that most people will live with mental health symptoms at some point in their lives, especially since the pandemic," said Gottschling. "People who never thought they would live with anxiety or depression now do for many reasons."
A new survey by the Canadian Mental Health Association, suggests 37 per cent of Canadians have experienced a decline in their mental health since the start of the pandemic.
The survey also suggests that nine per cent of Ontarians have experienced suicidal thoughts or feelings.
"We have lost some people to suicide," said Gottschling. "People that already lived with social anxiety and fear are afraid to take to the bus, to get COVID."
While great strides have been made concerning mental health awareness, Gottschling said more needs to be done. Showing up and supporting events, such as the flag raising, she said helps normalize mental health.
"Sharing stories and being honest about how you feel," said Gottschling. "I live with a mental health symptom and I have no shame."
Gottschling said the network's message is that "we are all in this together," and that people should not feel ashamed about living with a mental illness.
Jenny Jackson told the crowd about her experience with mental illness and the hope she was finally given years later.
"It's taken me 50 plus years but here I am," said Jackson. "My name is Jenny and I live with anxiety and OCD."
Jackson said real stories and experiences are the best tools in fighting the stigma around mental health.
"I have spoken more openly and realized that the more I share, the less lonely I am."
The MHNCK and Hope House provide support and encouragement to mental health survivors as well as their families and friends.
For more information about the Mental Health Network of Chatham-Kent, visit their website.