Episode 16: Toxic silence — Medicine Hat’s suicide crisis

Medicine Hat is in the midst of a suicide epidemic. Around 10 young men have taken their lives since June, compared to two who have died from COVID since March. What causes someone to lose hope to the extent that they consider ending their lives? 

We brought in a panel of people from the same demographic as the suicide victims to discuss their own brushes with mental health and addiction, breaking a code of silence surrounding suicidal ideation, especially among young men. 

Hatters Ryan Oscar, Damyan Davis and Rick Armstrong join us to open up about their personal struggles in an effort to show those who are currently struggling that they are not alone. It is only through frank discussion of the issue at hand that we can even begin to address this crisis. 

If you are in the depths of depression and are looking for someone to listen who has experienced what you're going through, you can reach Ryan at rkroscar@gmail.com, Damyan at damyandavis@gmail.com or Rick at rickarmstrong1@gmail.com. 

Help is also available 24-7 through Alberta's Mental Health Help Line, which can be reached toll free at 1-877-303-2642. 

Life, death and being a man in Medicine Hat