Depression and Anxiety Affect All Members of Society

We have all been told that mental illness can happen in all demographics and affects a huge segment of our society.  It is like cancer or any other illness.  It picks people at random.  Yes, there are a few factors that may indicate one person may have a higher predisposition towards certain diseases, but by and large, people who live with mental illness don't get a choice to decline based on "who" we are. 

I know we all say that.  That anyone can be affected by depression and anxiety, but, secretly, there is a large segment of society that doesn't really believe it.  I hate to say it, but I know a couple of people who think it is a made-up illness. 

I don't know about anyone else, but I was actually thrilled at 1:08 am this morning.  (Yes, I have chronic insomnia.)   That is when Supreme Court Justice Clement Gascon released a statement about his health.  It turns out that he was missing for several hours last Wednesday and the police had issued an alert.  He was found safe.  The statement provided some context for him being out of contact. 

He explained that for over twenty years, he has been dealing with a sometimes insidious illness of depression and anxiety disorders.  For the most part, the illness is treated and controlled but some days are better than others.  He explained he had a panic attack which he attributes to a change in medication as well as the mental energy in making a life-changing decision. 

I have had many debilitating panic attacks.  I have had the best therapists and my medical provider has prescribed medication.  I know the things that trigger me and I have strategies for when they happen.  Despite all this, sometimes they just happen.  It is horrible when it happens. 

I hate that I am thrilled with his pain.  However, a SUPREME COURT JUSTICE.  You don't get much higher in respect than that.  Not only that, Chief Justice Richard Wagner stated he is proud of Justice Gascon for his bravery in speaking up and is fully supportive of him.  David Lametti, the Justice Minister, also expressed support for Justice Gascon. 

It wasn't always this way.  Justice Gerald Le Dain was kicked off the Supreme Court in 1988 by Chief Justice Brian Dickson for having the same illness. 

We have no better evidence that society has evolved than the reaction to Justice Gascon.  A Supreme Court Justice.  Open about his illness. And supported. 

Yes, there still is stigma.  But, we are getting there. 

I went to a workshop decades ago about little tricks to help you.  Looking at the world through golden lens does help you see the world in a golden haze and makes you feel more positive.  I don't know if that happens because I believe it will happen, or if it just actually works.  Regardless, I need all the help I can get.  I am looking at the world through golden coloured lens today. 

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