Video on #mentalhealth earns Strathroy student a scholarship. https://t.co/AneyQj84u8
Mental Health Professionals Not Immune to Mental Illness
It has taken time for me to become comfortable with everyone at Ontario Shores knowing about my life living with mental illness.
I have been a mental health nurse for more than 10 years and I have worked in almost every area of the hospital at one point or another. But, I have not made a habit of sharing my story with everyone.
My friends in Occupational Health at Ontario Shores know my story. They have been my rock throughout my career and have always been there for me. They have played a huge role in my well-being and I am forever grateful for their support.
Growing Up in Fear of Judgement and Isolation
I don’t know much about hockey but I remember a few years ago a well-known hockey coach revealed to the public that he couldn’t read.
After Googling it the other day I discovered his name was Jacques Demers. He spoke two languages, coached in the National Hockey League (NHL) for years and won a Stanley Cup with the Montreal Canadiens in 1993.
He was 61 when he went public with his struggles.
I remember the shock felt by others.
I’m Still Katie
As I sit down to write this first blog in Ontario Shores’ #5in5 series on #MindVine I find myself at a loss.
Where do I start?
Do I start with my own history of mental illness?
How about my career in mental health care?
Or with my children and my desire to give them the love and support they might need as they continue grow and evolve as people?
Well, maybe I’ll start with me. Katie.
