At 19 years old I was diagnosed with Schizophrenia and Major Depression, and it has been an ongoing battle for me to get through Life. I was helped by my mother during the early onset of my illness. She sensed something was going haywire with me, but I didn't believe her. She helped me to find a psychiatrist, who got me to admit I wasn't doing well. After years of erratic behavior and getting myself into trouble, I finally found the right medication, which gave me a second chance in living a more stable (but maybe less exciting) Life. Without professional help, I may not have been able to function in society, or finish University, or keep a steady job. I may not even have survived at all.
Mental Health is a tough thing to maintain these days and we need each other's help to get through the tough times. Some of the resources I've learned about have been very helpful for me, my friends, family and co-workers, especially the BC 211 Website:
This resource is very comprehensive, and they can help you take the next step toward resolving your issue, no matter what it is (Family Problems, Relationship Problems, Food, Shelter, Mental Health, Addictions, Legal, Financial, Seniors Issues, you name it). Check out the website, or Dial / Text 2-1-1 on your phone to talk to someone. It's free, confidential, and available 24/7, 365 days a year. This resource has personally helped me, my family, my friends and my co-workers.
This guide was written by Carly who started doing suicide intervention way back in seventh grade and is now a therapist and facilitator. In the guide you will find a bunch of questions, ideas, and strategies for supporting folks who might be suicidal.
This is a highly circulated and informative list of links for white people that I found very educational to me. There are even lists of movies and podcasts to check out. I want to be an ally and not a sideline observer as we try to make the world a better place for everyone.
