This organization is empowering youth to shift the conversation around their own mental health

There are endless ways to implement positive change in communities and Jack.org is a fantastic example of how impactful a group of young people can truly be. Ryan Martin and Sadia Fazelyar are two leaders from the organization who shared their personal experiences with mental health, how they got involved with the organization and why they're passionate about making a difference in the lives of many. 

When Ryan was first diagnosed with bipolar disorder, he made the decision to deal with it on his own rather than seeking help. After a year of keeping his experiences to himself, he felt ready to share his story and use it to help others. He made the inspiring decision to bike across Canada for mental health awareness. Not only did he raise $125K, but along the way, he was also able to make meaningful connections with countless people from small towns to big cities. The experience taught him that more people are affected by mental illnesses than we think.

Sadia has been with Jack.org for about 3 years now. She had a continuous struggle with her mental health and had no idea where to turn or who to talk to. She first found out about Jack.org when they came to talk at her high school and she was immediately captivated. Hearing from an organization that was willing to have difficult conversations is what drew her right in.

WHAT JACK.ORG'S INNOVATIVE APPROACH LOOKS LIKE

Focused on youth mental health and suicide prevention, Jack.org is an organization that builds and fosters community to encourage people to keep going, despite their internal struggles. The foundation for their revolution is based on a unique approach consisting of Jack Talks, Jack Chapters and Jack Summits. From schools to community groups and anywhere that youth gather, Jack Talks was created to educate peers about the fundamental basics of mental health. Their trained and certified speakers share personal stories to engage and inspire youth between the ages of 15-24. 

Jack Chapters refers to groups of leaders that work year-round to dismantle barriers that many faces when embarking on the road to positive mental health. Advocates can start these chapters across the country at high schools and post-secondary campuses. Jack Summits are youth-led conferences of all sizes that bring young leaders together to amplify their voices. 

WHY JACK.ORG WORKS TO MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON YOUTH COMMUNITIES

Jack.org is Canada's only charity that works on training and empowering young leaders to revolutionize mental health in every territory and province. Jack.org has a 10-year history of caring and supporting youth across Canada. They believe that fueling their movement will provide people with the tools and knowledge they need to help themselves and also help others. To learn more about Jack.org's movement, visit their website.

When it comes to mental health, every action counts! Join the conversation on Bell Let’s Talk Day, January 26, and help create positive change for those living with mental health issues. For every text message, mobile or long-distance call made by Bell, Bell Aliant and Bell MTS customers, Bell will donate five cents to Canadian mental health initiatives. The same goes for every tweet or TikTok video with the hashtag #BellLetsTalk, watching the Bell Let’s Talk Day video on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest , TikTok or Snapchat, or using the Bell Let’s Talk Facebook frame or Snapchat filter. But that’s just the first step: Visit letstalk.bell.ca for more ways you can effect change and build awareness around mental health.