It warms my heart every time I see people coming together to join a conversation that focuses on promoting and supporting the mental health of all people and uplifting those struggling with their personal demons, whatever they may be. That conversation is being re-ignited today (Oct. 10), particularly on my social media platforms, for World Mental Health Day.

This year’s World Mental Health Day theme is mental health in the workplace. While I do not have much experience with mental health in the workplace, I can speak to something I think many of my peers can also relate to – mental health at school. There is no doubt that there is immense pressure on students, particularly in the college/university stream, to be well rounded. By that, I mean acing every grade, being involved in multiple extra-curricular activities, being a leader over here and an active participator over there, working one or more jobs and somehow finding the time in between to take care of yourself. Since the former is mostly a personal and internal obstacle, it often gets neglected.

In 2016, the Ontario University and College Health Association released alarming statistics about student mental health. Out of 25,000 students surveyed in the spring, 65 per cent reported experiencing overwhelming anxiety in the previous year – up from 57 per cent in 2013. Furthermore, 46 per cent reported feeling so depressed in the previous year it was difficult to function – up from 40 per cent in 2013. (Please do yourself a favour and don’t go read the comments on the story that CBC News wrote about this – it is a sad testament to how many people still refuse to see mental health as a real issue.)

I don’t know if I’m the person who can offer a tangible solution to this ever-present problem. What I can, and want to offer is some words of support, encouragement and general advice.

Never feel ashamed for putting everything on pause to focus on yourself. I’m talking about loving yourself, reminding yourself you are worthy and finding the light that will make you want to keep going. While this may cause some anxiety in and of itself, there are people who will support you as you put all the puzzle pieces back together. You simply cannot succeed in other areas of your life if you don’t put your own well-being first.

Think of it like getting sick. Think of how hard it is to get work done when you have a raging fever and sore throat and all the symptoms of the common cold, and all you want to do is lay in bed wrapped up in a warm cocoon with some warm tea. Now, how is that really any different from a mental illness that leaves you unable to find the strength or motivation to move the covers off your body, open the blinds, or even do anything, including what would normally thrill you? Both hold you back in the same way.

Don’t beat yourself up over one bad grade, or one bad social interaction, or one bad mental health episode. Your self-worth should be based on more than a number, what others think of you, or a chemical imbalance or response that is out of your control.

Also, surround yourself with people who will help you rather than hinder you. Look for the people who will listen to you, respond with compassion, give you a boost when you are at your lowest and celebrate with you when you are at your highest. Then, radiate kindness together.

Unfortunately, a lot of people only discuss mental health when it’s “cool” to do so, or only care when it affects them personally. That needs to change. Today, in honour of World Mental Health Day, take a few minutes to reach out to those who you think may be struggling and remind them they are loved. Let them know they can rely on you. Then, educate yourself and don’t be afraid to ask questions – there is always something to be learned about mental health. Of course, don’t forget to also check in with yourself – how are you really doing?

As for that conversation? Let’s continue it every day – mental health doesn’t come with an off switch, so neither should our efforts to remove the stigma.