Bruce Power is recognizing mental health awareness week with a social media challenge.
The company invited local leaders to help them launch the "Break the Silence" campaign, which will see Bruce Power donate up to $80,000 to local mental health initiatives in Bruce, Grey and Huron counties.
Acting President and CEO Kevin Kelly says all people have to do is like, share, retweet or mention #BreakTheSilence on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn this week and the company will put $1 towards the campaign for every action.
He explains the idea of the social media challenge is to get more people talking about mental health, pointing out the earlier the conversation is started, the easier it is to avoid a crisis situation with a person who is suffering.
Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Chief Greg Nadjiwon was on hand and recalled his personal experience with mental health problems when he was in high school years ago and had a nervous breakdown, but says he did not know the extent of his issues because there was no support in place at the time.
He says the mental health support and discussion has greatly expanded over the years.
"In this day and age, when we're aware that your life has been impacted in some way, shape or form, there's no shame in speaking to the issue," says Nadjiwon. "My issue was, as a young man, having a nervous breakdown and not realizing it."
The social media campaign begins today and runs until Sunday, with more information at www.breakthesilencebgh.com.
