Bell Canada has officially launched its “Let’s Talk” campaign, dedicated to reducing mental illness stigma, culminating on February 9, 2011 with the first annual Bell “Let’s Talk Day.” The Canadian communications company will donate five cents to programs dedicated to mental health for every text message sent and every long distance call made by Bell and Bell Aliant customers that day.
Let’s Talk Day is being supported by a major national television, print, radio and outdoor promotional campaign that will run through February 9, inviting Canadians to join the conversation about mental health. Six-time Olympic medalist Clara Hughes is national spokesperson for the campaign. As well, the Bell Let’s Talk online portal now enables Canadians to join the conversation directly by posting comments, questions and a supportive picture of their smile, while learning more about mental health resources, the Bell Mental Health Initiative, and ways to begin conversations about mental health, including at home and in the workplace.
Mental health is the focus of a five-year, $50 million community investment by Bell, announced in September 2010. The effort is centred on four pillars: anti-stigma efforts, improving care and access, research support, and new workplace initiatives.
For more information about the campaign, visit letstalk.bell.ca. See also the Bell Canada press release, “Bell Let’s Talk Campaign in Support of Mental Health Launches Today,” January 17, 2011, available at newswire.ca.