Do You Know Someone Who’s Struggling?
Mental health is a very important issue right now. Countless people are suffering – sometimes it’s noticeable and sometimes it’s not. There’s been a stigma around mental health for a long time, but through awareness and education things are starting to open up. More services and aid will be needed as time goes on.
I’ve mentioned before that I’ve struggled with issues like anxiety, and now I’m using my platform to bring more awareness to mental health and hopefully help those who are suffering. There is a lot of work to be done.
One of the first things I’ll be doing is joining a panel discussion at a FREE monthly event called “The GMI Hub,” and the topic will be health and music. This is organized by Cheryle Dueck, founder of the Gospel Music Industry Hub. While this event is geared towards musicians, some things I will be speaking about can be applied to anyone.
The event will also feature panelist Ace Piva (the tour manager, post-performance mood researcher and founder of Over the Bridge) and Michelle Titian (founder of The Drive Foundation). There will also be a featured showcase performance by singer-songwriter Shawna Cain.
Here are the details:
Start Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Studio.89,
#104 – 1065 Canadian Place,
Mississauga ON
If you are a musician or are interested in the music industry or just love music, come on out and support this great monthly event.
When we work together great things can happen.
Peace and love,
Vili V
P.S.
Here’s Some Facts About Mental Illness (courtesy of Canadian Mental Health Association
> In any given year, 1 in 5 people in Canada will personally experience a mental health problem or illness.
> By age 40, about 50% of the population will have or have had a mental illness
> Suicide accounts for 24% of all deaths among 15-24 year olds and 16% among 25-44 year olds.
> Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in both men and women from adolescence to middle age.
> A complex interplay of genetic, biological, personality and environmental factors causes mental illnesses.
> Almost one half (49%) of those who feel they have suffered from depression or anxiety have never gone to see a doctor about this problem.The economic cost of mental illnesses in Canada for the health care system was estimated to be at least $7.9 billion in 1998 – $4.7 billion in care, and $3.2 billion in disability and early death.
> Here are the full stats on the Canadian Mental health Association Website: