Welcome and let’s listen!

I was recently in Montreal visiting my son and stayed in a wonderful apartment that I found on Airbnb. I approached my stay with an open blue door policy. I invited young people who are students at McGill or alumni, to come over for dinners. I listened attentively to various discussions about academia, working, partying, juggling relationships, conflicts with roommates, the availability of ‘the study drug’, and practicing good self-care.

Ironically, my trip to Montreal coincided with Mental Health Awareness Week at McGill.

A recent article in the Nov. 26th Province ‘Digital Confessions’ reveals a sombre reality that many students are facing; the need that students anonymously need to open up online about their private struggles. The article ends with a perplexing dilemma of our times: “It’s like an open mic with everyone having a paper bag over their heads. People can say anything.” This platform which allows students to anonymously express their hardships is indeed an outlet, but somehow this need for this type of disclosure concerns me. Being in a non-judgemental, honest conversation with a good listener of choice, does not call for a paper bag. If one does still need a mic, then one can access one’s voice and be heard loud and clear.

The lives of students today are riddled with anxiety and pressures that leave many feeling vulnerable and unable to cope. Keeping our door open and just listening can help another to step into a better place. To walk through mental pain thresholds with another human being opens up doors for everyone!

Yours in MOMentum,
Debbie Havusha

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