4 minute read
Turning Our Reasons into Action
Turning Our Reasons into Action
BY SARAH CHAMBERLIN
Two years into a pandemic that some hoped would only last two months has left many of us are tired, annoyed, and understandably angered. Though, what I’ve noticed most is that we’re stubbornly resilient as well. We’re also experts at enduring and, as a result, the mental health movement is stronger than ever.
Everyone has a reason for supporting the movement, whether through personal lived experience or that of somebody we know. As a leader in mental health research and treatment, CAMH’s goal is to create a world where mental health is health for everyone. In 2021, here’s how we turned our reason into action:
Supporting working Canadians
CAMH’s Business Leaders for Mental Health Action is a philanthropic coalition of business leaders and companies committed to improving the psychological health and safety of employees. We hosted two major virtual events where attendees learned about practical ways to manage anxiety, how to best support themselves and other employees, the power of vulnerable leadership, managing diverse teams, developing workplace mental health strategies, and more.
Committing to equity and equality
womenmind is CAMH’s community of philanthropists committed to closing the gender gap in mental health. It fuels philanthropy focused on discovers that lead to better mental health outcomes for girls and women, and supports femaleidentifying researchers to become leaders in the sciences. Last year, the community proudly welcomed Dr. Daisy Singla, its first-ever womenmind scientist who is working to advance research in women’s mental health.
Tackling the most complex mental health issues
From discoveries that could prevent PTSD, to dietary supplements proven to prevent baby blues from progressing into postpartum depression, CAMH’s Today campaign highlights how mental health research is saving lives today. The campaign gives a more prominent voice to people with lived experience, empowering them to share their stories, and showing how donors can drive real change.
Rising together for mental health
The Sunrise Challenge, CAMH’s new flagship fundraiser, encouraged people to rise with the sun and do something positive for their mental health for one week, while also raising funds to support mental health programs and research. More than 4,600 people participated and more than 23,000 donated. Every donation helps CAMH lower suicide rates, reduce the disability caused by mental illness, and empowers more people to reach meaningful recovery.
Moving forward, together
The past year is further proof that tumultuous times can’t stop passionate people from turning their reasons into action. Collaboration and generosity continue to enable us to accomplish so much. From hospital staff working tirelessly to ensure patient safety and recovery, to community members donating what they can, to people providing listening ears to others in need — 2021 might not have been the year we had hoped for, but it was definitely a success in many regards, and that’s thanks to every member of this mental health movement.
As we wade through these pandemic waters, it’s vital that we continue to take care of our mental health while supporting our loved ones and people in our communities. CAMH’s commitment to mental health remains unchanged. As we’ve done since 1998, we will continue to solve the world’s biggest mental health challenges by advancing mental health care through research and discovery. We will continue to share stories of clinical breakthroughs and the patients they serve. We will also continue to be a beacon of hope for Canadians, as we emerge on the other side of the pandemic stronger, together.
Most of all, we will continue to share our gratitude, knowing that people like you are turning your reason into action as part of the mental health movement in 2022 and beyond.
If you would like to learn more about CAMH’s movement for mental health and how to support our work, please visit https://www.camh.ca/en/get-involved.
SARAH CHAMBERLIN is Vice President of Marketing and Donor Experience at CAMH Foundation. The Foundation supports the philanthropic efforts of CAMH, Canada’s largest mental health teaching hospital and a world leader in mental health research, treatment, and advocacy. Please visit CAMH.ca to read more about the important work CAMH is doing with the help of our communities or email Sarah at sarah.chamberlin@camh.ca. She writes this column exclusively for each issue of Foundation Magazine.
