Mr. Speaker, this week is the 64th National Mental Health Week. Like physical health, mental health is part of the well-being of every Canadian, and over the years, it may be good or bad.
Life is not easy and there are many obstacles along the way. However, no problem is too small because everyone experiences an emotional reaction to events. These problems cause tension, which is not ideal for making the best decisions.
That is why it is important to talk about our problems with our loved ones or through a telephone hotline. People want to talk about their suffering. They want to give it a name. They want the other person to acknowledge their suffering. They want to express it.
For that, we have to give people the opportunity to express themselves and not necessarily give them advice, but just listen. We have to trust those people. They are capable of making their own decisions. It is enough to just be there, not say a word and just listen, because being able to talk about the problem reduces anxiety by half. Talking releases emotions and allows people to achieve a better mental balance.
Let us take the time to listen to one another.
Thank you Tel-Aide Saguenay Lac Saint-Jean for being there.