Hi- I am Toon, Med-I-Well's Occupational Athlete Coach and today, I’m struggling...

This is something that’s never easy to admit, and probably not something most people expect me to say given that I have a healthy and happy marriage, two beautiful boys (one more baby on the way), I’m a former pro athlete and work as a Health & Wellness coach at Med-I-Well, a job that I love.. but it’s true.

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, every year 1 in 5 people in Canada will personally experience a mental health problem or illness, and by age 40 roughly 50% of the population will have or have had a mental illness.

I have never been diagnosed with a mental illness, but I have experienced a traumatic event in my life that when compounded with stress can lead to really frightening moments that can last for moments or days.

Over the past year, many of us have experienced our own unique set of stressors. Some cancer, for others it’s relationship issues, family issues, loss of loved ones, work related stress, lack of purpose, etc. Everyone is experiencing something and then throw into the mix the current worldwide pandemic we are navigating and at times things can seem really bleak.

I wanted to share this with all of you in hopes of helping move the discussion around Mental Health forward within your organization. We all need to play a part and if you are struggling with your own mental health, know that you are not alone. There are people and resources out there that can help and the first and hardest step is to take the leap and ask for help.

If you need help, support or just someone to talk to, please reach out to our team at Med-I-Well Services. Our team of multi-disciplinary health care professionals is here to help you and/or your organization feel better physically and mentally. We also strongly believe in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health so that people feel comfortable to get the help that they need.

Thanks,

Toon

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