GUELPH – Heather Glenister doesn’t think we all need to be on suicide watch, but at the same time, a kind word or gesture can go a long way.
Glenister is the coordinator of the Suicide Awareness Council of Wellington-Dufferin and she’s encouraging what she’s calling “the kindness revolution.”
“Suicide prevention is about connection, so get on the phone and really reach out to vulnerable populations,” she said.
“You don’t know what to say? There’s no formula. It’s about compassion and concern.”
Health experts are calling mental illness the fourth wave of the COVID-19 crisis – and it may be upon us sooner than we realize.
In fact, grief, burnout, psychological trauma, depression and anxiety are already growing, Glenister said, “and down the road there will be an epidemic in mental health.”
Now several weeks in, those who made use of clinical and emotional supports before COVID-19 have likely returned to it in some form, she said, and those organizations are already experiencing increases in calls for help from new clients as well.
Frontline workers face stresses that can take an emotional toll. Children, youth, seniors, those who are back to work in public settings – everyone is struggling to some extent, she said.
“The other thing is the grief piece,” she said. “People have lost so much – income, jobs, independence, loved ones. That’s a big one.”
Suicide doesn’t enter everyone’s mind, but just in case, it is important to reach out to family, friends, neighbours and those that are particularly isolated and vulnerable.
Recognizing the potential signs of suicide risk is helpful: suicidal threats, talking or joking about suicide, expressions of hopelessness, helplessness, desperation, and changes in personality or mood.
By being alert to changes in behaviours, people can help someone sooner.
The Suicide Awareness Council has a number of resources on its website, www.sacwd.ca/resources.
Anyone who is in crisis or who needs to talk with an expert can contact Here 24/7, the addictions, mental health and crisis service in Waterloo-Wellington at 1-844-437-3247 or TTY: 1-877-688-5501 or the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text: 686868.
