Communication Hut: Bell's "Let's Talk" Campaign

I've worked in a counselling centre as the marketing coordinator since last April, and I've learned so much about mental health. I began reading a lot about mental health, getting perspectives on people suffering from depression and what it's like to know someone who's committed suicide. I know, pretty heavy stuff to read at work, but I'm responsible for uploading engaging and interesting contant for the centre's Facebook and Twitter pages. I wanted people to actually read what I was posting, and more importantly, to start thinking about mental health in Canada. I had people come up to me and express their appreciation for what I was posting...because let's face it, not a lot of people are talking about depression and suicide. It's always been a hush hush topic.

That's where Bell comes in. Their "Let's Talk" campaign starts tomorrow (Feb 8th). Bell customers who make long distant calls and texts will actually help raise money that will go back into mental health. This is huge in an industry, which I now know, has had huge cuts in funding in recent years. Mental health has taken a backseat to regular health care in Ontario, and it's unfortunate.

Now I'm not exactly a fan of Bell. In fact, I switched from their services a few years back when I found their customer service to be lacking in...well...niceness. I've heard many stories from people complaining about Bell's customer service, and I'm pretty sure they've lost many customers. So to hear that they're doing this and trying to get people to open up about their own mental illnesses is awesome. In terms of a good PR move...well, it's certainly not doing Bell any harm. They've been promoting this campaign in full force. I've seen their commercial everyday in the last couple weeks. I really didn't like Bell after my past experiences, but now my view has shifted. I see them as doing real social good. It's really helping mental health in Canada, and...well...it's helping Bell's tarnished image. A win, win? I'd say so.

Here are some useful links:

Ontario

CMHA Ontario Division