As Mental Health Week gets underway, Northumberland resident Chloe Craig is offering a candid look at what living with mental health challenges can really feel like and what many people still do not understand.
She says one of the biggest misconceptions is that mental health struggles come down to motivation or choice.
In reality, it is often the opposite.
Craig says even with the best intentions, everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning or returning a phone call can feel impossible.
Her experience reached one of its most difficult point last summer.
She says that period was marked by isolation, disrupted sleep and a complete loss of routine – something many people may not see from the outside.
Despite those challenges, Craig says recovery is not about a single moment, but a series of small shifts.
She says connecting with community supports, attending groups and finding people who understand has helped rebuild a sense of purpose.
Craig’s message to others struggling quietly is simple: you are not alone, and reaching out – even with a single conversation – can be the first step forward.
Mental Health Week runs across Canada this week, focusing on reducing stigma, sharing lived experiences and encouraging people to seek support when they need it most.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available through family doctors, walk-in clinics and community services with cmhahkpr.ca offering a wide range of local mental health resources all in one place, and the Ontario Health Team of Northumberland’s Come Together event on Friday, May 8 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Cobourg Community Centre bringing together 35 organizations to connect residents with help in person.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
