The Brock Badgers are joining the conversation to help combat mental illness when their hockey and basketball teams host games in support of Bell Let's Talk on Saturday.

Brock is giving away free toques to the first 100 fans through the gate when their nationally-ranked men's hockey team (15-5-2-2) welcomes the Lakehead Thunderwolves (10-11-1-1) on Saturday, Jan. 26 at Seymour-Hannah Arena. Puck drop is 2:15 p.m.

Two thirds of those suffering from mental illness are too afraid to reach out for help, according to Bell Canada.

"It's okay to admit you need help. Do not suffer, because you are never ever alone," said Brock men's hockey captain Brody Silk. "It's important to discuss, because it can save lives and shed light on the support many people need."

The Badgers are looking forward to raising awareness about mental illness, which can take many forms, including depression, anxiety or schizophrenia.

"Our athletes are always top-notch supporters of the campaign and really rally around it," said Emily Allan, Associate Director of Brock Sports. "The majority of our student population has been influenced by mental health at some point in time, whether in their own life or that of a family member or friend."

In athletics, student-athletes are exposed to a demanding schedule of academics, competition, training, recovery, maintaining nutrition and travel.

"These types of circumstances can lead to extreme highs and lows, and this is where its important for athletes to be compassionate and supportive of one another," added Allan. "In creating open environments where everyone can feel comfortable discussing their mental health and wellness, we are helping to break down the stigma."

The Bell Let's Talk campaign is built on four pillars: anti-stigma, improving access to care, supporting world-class research, and leading by example in workplace mental health.

The conversation and awareness is working.

According to the latest research, 87 per cent of Canadians are more aware of mental health issues than five years ago. Additionally, 85 per cent think attitudes about mental health have changed for the better, and 75 per cent believe the stigma around mental illness has been reduced.

Get your tickets at brocku.universitytickets.com.

BADGERS BELL LET'S TALK GAMES

Saturday, Jan. 26

Men's Hockey vs. Lakehead (Seymour-Hannah Arena), 2:15 p.m. Tickets

Women's Basketball vs. Algoma (Bob Davis Gymnasium), 6 p.m. Tickets

Women's Hockey vs. Ryerson (Seymour-Hannah Arena), 7:15 p.m. Tickets

Men's Basketball vs. Algoma (Bob Davis Gymnasium), 8 p.m. Tickets