One can point to any number of occurrences in recent memory – the mass shooting deaths of RCMP officers near Mayerthorpe and in New Brunswick, the numerous senseless ‘suicide by cop’ situations, the vast array of individuals that have taken their own lives after killing people they love or who they work with – and know that there needs to be change in how society looks for and then deals with people that are having problems with life’s situations and mental illness.
With the start of another year, and people resolving to change one thing or another in their lives, why not instead make your first resolution to help change someone else’s life instead?
Financial difficulties, lack of adequate food and shelter and other stresses of life are things that tend to cause anguish and strain on people, which can lead to them feeling that there is no way out, and ultimately, falling into a state where they feel leaving life behind as in the only option left.
Being able to recognize these symptoms – as well as other things like depression, loneliness, bullying, withdrawal and behaviour that is out of character – is the first step to getting these individuals the assistance they need.
Additionally, doing what you can to provide agencies like charities and food banks with donations will also go a long way to assisting those that are most vulnerable in society.
The next step is making sure to follow up on your concerns about these people. It isn’t good enough to simply recognize what is happening, but one needs to act on it by trying to get them the help they need.
Be it a call to police, putting them in touch with a doctor or another professional that can assist with any treatment they need or simply being a shoulder to lean on and being part of the necessary support structure they need in rough times.
However, there is yet another way to help out.
That is by being a vocal advocate for a substantial increase in the resources that need to be available through the health and mental wellness systems in this province for everyone in need.
Currently, many people that are pushed through the justice system or dealt with by police are there simply due to a lack of resources to help them with their mental illness, addictions or general welfare.
And with the provincial government presently searching for ways to lower spending in all areas due to a dramatic decrease in revenue, the crises people are facing may get worse and even more might need intervention services to stave off being left behind by society.
The need for change is not in the future, but it is now, lest we see more tragic events.
