The piece of artwork attached to this blog is called “Invisible”. It was created in 2014 and expresses my feelings about our children who are struggling and yet invisible.
Last week, I did the unimaginable. I attended the funeral of a beautiful 19-year-old young man. His name was Alexander William Morrison from Kitchener. He was a physically healthy, tall, strapping young man who unfortunately was not getting the support he needed and he committed suicide. He was the grandson of a very good friend of mine. His grandmother, parents, twin sister, other family members, and his many friends all said what a wonderful person he was. He was kind and generous. He cared about everyone and went out of his way to help others. Unfortunately, when he needed help from our medical system for mental health issues, he was put on a six-month waiting list. His parents were assured he wouldn’t harm himself. He managed to survive two of those months with the help of his devoted family.
My heart bleeds for his family and friends. My mind is extremely angry with our medical system that let him down. Who will be accountable for the loss of this wonderful young man. He is one of many young men who chose to take their lives here in Canada. The suicide rate for young people between the age of 10-19 is 4.9 females and 7.4 males per 100,000 people. This represents 1,874 young girls and women and 2,830 young boys and men under the age of 19 each year. When you do the math, the numbers are shocking. Close to 5,000 of our young people are dying each year in Canada by their own hands.
My friend is grieving for the loss of her only grandson. Her heart is breaking and mine is breaking for her. What can we do to help stop this terrible loss of life? Mental Health used to be a topic that was avoided when I was growing up. Thanks to many organizations and public campaigns the topic is no longer taboo. The biggest issue is the lack of services available for our children who need them.
Not one to speak out about politics, I usually leave that for those with a more informed voice. In this case, I do have to speak up. Cuts to funding for all medical services and mental health supports have created a crisis in our country. So many people are doing without or waiting for many months for service. People are living in physical and mental pain. Speak up, talk to your neighbours about this issue. Tell your local politicians how you feel about what is going on at the political level that is creating this crisis. Use your voice to demand change, use your vote to help create the change.
If you are aware of someone who is struggling, no matter their age be kind. A warm hug, a listening ear, and showing that you care can make a difference.
Help Line: Talk Suicide 1-833-456-4566
“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always”
Robin Williams
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