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Canadian Actors' Equity Association
Equiflash
The official news of Canadian Actors' Equity Association
CMHA Mental Health Week


May 3-9, 2021 is the Canadian Mental Health Association’s 70th annual Mental Health Week.

This year’s theme is:
#GetReal about how you feel.
Name it, don’t numb it.



Equity Council President Scott Bellis writes:

It’s been a long and painful year. Those of us who live and work in the performing arts have endured loneliness and isolation, greater financial instability, and separation from the work we love. Our collective mental health has taken a solid beating; I have definitely had some hard moments this year. If you have found yourself in need of help, my biggest hope for Mental Health Week is that help has found its way to you. Please remember that our LifeWorks program is there for members if needed. Keep connected with those you care for, however you can, and if you are feeling the need to talk, for whatever reason, please reach out to someone. No one should suffer in silence. Keep imagining the future. We’re going to get through this. We’ll be together soon.

Deena Aziz, Equity Councillor for Quebec and Co-Chair of the Mental Health and Wellness Task Force writes:

The theme for this year’s Mental Health Week is acknowledging our emotions (#GetReal). A tall order given the emotional roller-coaster we’ve been riding for over a year. COVID-19 has brought unprecedented stresses and feelings of anxiety, with 40% of Canadians saying their mental health has deteriorated since the onset of the pandemic. (The figures are probably higher in our community.) But perhaps the hardship has brought attention to things that matter: how we are connected and need connection; how we want to live and create in more just, compassionate, and sustainable ways. There will be an after-times, and we will gather to work and play. But for now, if you’re struggling, reach out. If you know someone who’s struggling, extend a hand.



Take a minute this week to check in with your own mental health and that of the people that surround you. And don’t be afraid to reach out if you need some help – the Canadian Mental Health Association’s website allows you to search by geographic location for your local CMHA branch where there are local resources highlighted. We also have some national resources on Equity’s website.

#EquityStrong
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