spend far too much time and too much mental energy working on projecting a flawless physique on stage . And for many of us , in so doing , we hide the mental health price we pay for trying to appear as specimens of physical perfection . It ’ s time we stop hiding and it ’ s time we start talking .
For those of us who , like myself are challenged with mental health , let ’ s be as strong about opening up and sharing , let ’ s be as strong emotionally off stage , as we are physically on stage . If you ’ re struggling with a mental health issue , there are many community resources you can access for help . A list of referrals follows this article . And for those who are fortunate enough to not have had to deal with a mental health issue , please become an ally , an advocate , a champion of mental health causes . If you see someone or have a feeling someone you know is struggling , reach out and offer them your support . Share the resources listed below . Because too often , as a consequence of the stigma of mental illness , those of us who need help , are often too ashamed to ask for help .
3 . Canadian Centre for Mental Health and Sport – National Organization supporting mental health – resource list : Mental Health Resources
As bodybuilders , we are excellent at “ building .” So , together let ’ s “ build ” something new – a community coming together in a spirit of mutual support , validation , and affirmation for not just what we look like on the outside but much more importantly , for what we feel like on the inside . Let ’ s build a community of kind , compassionate lifters who care about each other ’ s mental health and our own , who reach out to those who need our support , and who are determined and committed to fighting the stigma of mental illness . With the first week of May designated as National Mental Health Week , learn more about what you can do , go to : CMHA Mental Health Week - Canadian Mental Health Association
4 . eMentalHealth . ca Crisis Lines including Telephone , Online and Chat : Toronto , ON : Mental Health Services , Help and Support :
5 . Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addictions – provides a list of Addiction Treatment Helplines in Canada .
6 . Eating disorders also play a large part in mental Health , check the available resources here ;
And for anyone in need of mental health support services across Canada , here are resources to access :
1 . Government of Canada mental health web page providing links to community resources
For anyone who would like to contact me and share your story , please feel free to reach out via email : getinshape @ live . com or via Instagram at : trainerlorne . I am dedicated to supporting others like myself , who strive each day to build a healthy mind in a healthy body .
2 . Canadian Mental Health Association – national advocacy organization with branches across Canada providing mental health services – find your local office here :
References :
1 . “ Fast Facts about Mental Health and Mental Illness ”– Canadian Mental Health Association 2 . “ Mental health of Canadians continues to worsen . Loss of social contacts , and lockdowns and restrictions negatively impact their mental health .” Nanos Research / CTV News , January 2022
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