I started ParentalMental.com this year, because I was, and continue to be, uncertain about my parenting, but even more about parenting during the pandemic.
Founded on the basis of sharing experiences and building what I call Relatable Solidarity, by allowing readers to observe and, hopefully conclude, “It’s not only me” demonstrated its necessity as children and parents were locked down together, 24/7.

On October 20, 2020, I was invited to co-present at the Canadian Mental Health Association’s National Conference
Co-presenting with a member of the Mental Health Commission of Canada, I spoke about my experience as a participant in their Community-Based Research (CBR) Forum, and as a member of the Review Committee for the project, which has awarded 14 grants and $1.4 million in funding to research in Cannabis and Mental Health.

Representation is key, and incorporating the voices of those of us with mental health concerns into the mainstream media is mandatory, as a massive, stigmatizing void currently exists, especially when it comes to parenting.
Stereotypical images convince others that we are a danger to ourselves and our children. That must be repaired.

“People with lived experience of mental health concerns can offer significant value, and provide equity to any group or organization that communicates with the public.”

To read/hear the full presentation, click here to visit imLeanneM.com