Depression and other mental health concerns, living with chronic pain, and addictions can sometimes make life seem futile. Numbness may creep in until all enjoyment of everyday living trickles away. Emotions can disappear and although we can become expert at putting on a cheerful face when socially expected, inside we might feel nothing but emptiness.
Some of us become masters of disguise and the world has no inkling what we are going through. This can be especially true if we see ourselves as educated or skillful people who have accomplished many goals, handle large responsibilities and know people count on us. How can we share our situation and risk that others will be disappointed or see us in an unflattering light? A job loss, financial burdens or relationship change can strain our sense of well-being even more.
When in the middle of intense despair or feelings of helplessness, it’s difficult to effectively problem solve or feel any hope for the future. Issues at the root of depression or anxiety can appear impossible to fix. Suicide may seem like a solution, but there is so much more you can do if you find your thoughts – however fleeting – turn to suicide.
In our recent public service video about depression and suicide, Mara Grunau of the Centre for Suicide Prevention (a branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association) confirms the need to keep talking, to reach out and get help whenever thoughts of suicide pose as an answer. It can seem like the hardest thing to do, but it’s the best thing to do.
The more you learn about mental health and suicide, the more you will know you’re not alone and there are people ready to help you regain a sense of hope. Here are some solid resources:
Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention
Mental Health Commission of Canada
Canadian Mental Health Association
Your Arete employee or business assistance program is a great place to turn whenever depression or other strains on your mental health start to build. When you call us, a highly trained specialist will listen to you and understand. We’ll ask a few questions and because we know it’s a big step to ask for help, you’ll always be treated with compassion, dignity and respect. You’ll be matched with a counselling professional based on your preferences, location and needs. Your first appointment will be at your convenience and is an opportunity to really share what you are going through.
You’ll be in good hands from day one with any of our network of highly qualified counsellors, but are always free to request a change if the fit doesn’t feel right to you. Your conversations with us and appointments with your counsellor are completely confidential.
And something to remember: your eligible family members may be covered by your program, depending on which option your employer or organization offers. This means if your spouse, partner or an eligible dependent is personally suffering with negative thoughts, they can use some of your available hours for counselling themselves. Although we may believe our thinking and actions are a private thing and don’t affect anyone else, this just isn’t the case. Mental health issues affect the entire family, so consider this option. It can really help.
If you or your loved ones are feeling overwhelmed by circumstances, remember: things can change and they will.
Make the call, you’ll be glad you did.
1 877 412-7483
Never give up, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.” – Harriet Beecher Stowe