Tumbler Ridge Writers
I’m sure you’ll agree that Tumbler Ridge is a haven of beauty and is blessed with many amenities that would make any community rightly proud.
Sadly however, as touched upon in two earlier articles, all is not well in paradise.
A rash of premature and untimely deaths has caused much pain and suffering in our scenic little town. No amount of natural beauty can give immunity from such sobering events.
In fact, Northern British Columbia has carried more than its share of pain and premature passings.
BC Coroners Service reported that in 2017 whilst all regions of BC saw modest reductions in deaths by suicide, the proportion of such deaths in the Northern Health Authority remained stubbornly high. In fact, it has the greatest of any region in BC at 17.7 deaths per 100,000 people. The Alaska Highway News reported that during the first eight months of 2019, a total of 11 deaths from drug overdose were confirmed in Northeast BC, with 77% of those attributable to Fentanyl.
In its Suicide Prevention Framework, the Federal government recognized the enormity of the problem with between 25 and 30 suicide attempts across Canada for every death by Suicide.
It’s all too easy to pass well-meaning judgment upon the circumstances which spawned the individual events leading to these deaths, but perhaps greater service can be done by a non-judgmental and broader commentary on the things which are a threat to individual happiness and health.
Outside the innumerable pleasures of life in Tumbler Ridge, its geography dictates that some residents endure substantial isolation. Physical distances limit opportunities for broader social interaction and more comprehensive social services. Unemployment and resultant financial demands are another factor. And then there is the winter darkness and cold…
It would be rare to find a citizen anywhere who claimed never to have felt low, but add to that the range of potential issues mentioned, and the temptation to play into the hands of loneliness and isolation increases. Remaining alone – by design or lack of drive to socialize – accentuates this loneliness and isolation, circling into ever deepening depression. Add to this fermenting pot the temptation to seek solace in mind altering substances, both lawful and otherwise, and a situation bereft of hope is not far away.
Don’t be fooled by outward appearances. Some people may appear successful and confident, but their inner feelings could be at odds with their public persona. Pride in previous success, or perceived stigma at acknowledging ones’ apparent weakness may prevent people from admitting what they likely know for themselves: they don’t in fact feel quite how they may present.
This piece is not intended to be heavy with the weight of ‘’expert’’ views or commentary, but instead springs from a point of real concern as our community heads into the winter season. It could be about anyone you know – even you.
So, what can we do? Tumbler Ridge has many amenities capable of filling time and easing loneliness for those of a mind and inclination to partake. Hiking, visiting the library, or using other facilities at the community centre can constructively pass an hour or two, and may provide the opportunity to feel less alone through even the briefest of chats with others. Medical researchers have consistently recognized the positive effect of physical activity on one’s mental health.
Sometimes, all that is needed to disrupt a downward spiral is for a neighbour or passer-by to say “Hi” or ‘’How are you today?’’ Even such a simple interaction can make a difference and is a practical application that should become the norm.
Tumbler Ridge is a community that cares and you don’t need to suffer alone. For those times when you just know you can’t cope with going outside or even speaking with a friend on the phone; or if your drug of choice is no longer a choice and is ruling how you live your life; make a call to your local doctor, or to one of the numbers below. Let that day be the last day you suffer silently.
