Getting a social worker in Calgary

[MarchHare]

This isn't something I feel good about dragging onto a hockey forum (realize there is much more here, of course) and the embarrassment hasn't set it fully

You have no need to feel embarrassed. As you can see from the replies here, everyone is being really helpful and supportive. I think you're very brave to ask for help in such a public way. I hope the positive reaction this thread is receiving will serve as an example for other people who also need support but are too embarrassed to ask for it.

Several other posters have already provided you with many useful links and resources, so this may be redundant at this point, but I've also sent a link to this thread to my wife. She's a social worker in Calgary, and although she isn't specifically involved in the type of support you need, I'm sure she knows the right people and organizations for you to contact.

[AMG_G]

Originally Posted by Hair bleach and Vodka

Thank you for your kindness, Hockeyguy15, I know the food bank is mere hours away and from what I understand they do offer rush care for emergency situations. This isn't healthy and I realize it.. though I do have experience with it. Even when I was working my eating has gone down to minimal levels. In a sick way it's almost prepared me for this horrible time.

I have reached out to my father, even though he is on the road (trucker), and I know he doesn't understand.. but he cares. I know I just need to tell him I need some financial help, but before I do so I want to explore some of these options.

Even telling my dad I have depression/anxiety will be extremely difficult. I'm also scared that if he were to just send money that I'd go and get some groceries and then knowing my physical health isn't in danger (I suppose that's debatable) not go through with seeing someone who can help.

I tend to avoid things. It's my coping thing.

I'm absolutely exhausted mentally and my body could use a rest as well. I have sent those emails out.. saved messages.. and have as much info saved/bookmarked.

I need to be up by 1:15 in the afternoon, I'm going to set my alarm and make sure I call the food bank.

This isn't something I feel good about dragging onto a hockey forum (realize there is much more here, of course) and the embarrassment hasn't set it fully. I know it will though. I'm also aware I have no reason to be embarrassed.. and help isn't a bad thing or something to be cast aside.

Thank you all for showing that humanity isn't that bad. It stills the tempest that is my mind.. even slightly, knowing that even if I feel alone--there are good thoughts in some shape or form out there.

*lets out a deep breath*

This will have to be settled.. I'm just glad I didn't freeze up and not post.

PM me I can drive you to Safeway to get some groceries.

[longsuffering]

Originally Posted by MarchHare

You have no need to feel embarrassed.

This.

Asking for help is one of the hardest and bravest things anyone can do.

Accepting help can also be tough. OP, I encourage to reach out to one or more of the helping hands being offered.

[Jacks]

I would encourage you to pick up that phone and get some real one on one help, we aren't experts in mental health.

Originally Posted by AMG_G

PM me I can drive you to Safeway to get some groceries.

I'd be happy to chip in but would be worried that would just delay HB&V from seeking the help he/she needs.

[AMG_G]

Bleach pm'd me and I am planning on getting him some ramen, friut and some canned goods. Waiting for his text for time and public meeting place for the handover. I am totally okay with helping a fellow CP'er no questions asked.

Thanks for the offer to chip in but the logistics of collecting probably isn't worth it.

I understand your concerns but I think a man thinks better on a full stomach and I'm sure he is willing to take the next steps for help hence this thread.

[Northendzone]

don't feel bad for reaching out this way, sometimes we find ourselves in situations where we feel lost and need help.

i underestimate your dad, after all he likley changed a few of your diapers - i am sure he cares and wants to help.

[Nyah]

Originally Posted by Hair bleach and Vodka

I don't have a family doctor and I have been fired due to a freak out on Sunday night. I didn't do anything to my employer.. but having to call 911 and get taken away by ambulance has them telling me to go pound sand.

I'm not an expert on labour laws in Alberta, but having a mental health crisis or 'freak out' and your employer having to call 911 is hardly grounds for employment termination, no?

[Flacker]

Originally Posted by AMG_G

Bleach pm'd me and I am planning on getting him some ramen, friut and some canned goods. Waiting for his text for time and public meeting place for the handover. I am totally okay with helping a fellow CP'er no questions asked.

Thanks for the offer to chip in but the logistics of collecting probably isn't worth it.

I understand your concerns but I think a man thinks better on a full stomach and I'm sure he is willing to take the next steps for help hence this thread.

You're a good man AMG. Physical stresses like starvation will definitely cause mental and emotional problems. Deal with the physical well-being first, as that level of intake sounds dangerous. If I can assist in any way, fire me a PM.

Bleach you've done the right thing by reaching out, now accept the help that is being offered for what it is, a sincere effort to assist.

[Hair bleach and Vodka]

Yes, I am awaiting an email from CMHA and I've at least told my father that I'm not okay and I may need his support. I realize this is serious. I knew things had changed after my episode on Sunday. I can't just hope to find another job only to not be able to get out of bed and lose it or something. It's too serious now. AMG, thank you..

I have told my father what is going on (didn't tell him about the seriousness of my sunday episode, he's driving back from Vancouver right now) and he told me I need to make sure I follow the advice of the CMHA when they contact me back. He has also said that on Monday he can drive me anywhere I need to go and he of course is freaking out about my weight loss. It clicked in finally for him that it isn't exercise.

I need to get my life back.

[CaptainCrunch]

Originally Posted by Nyah

I'm not an expert on labour laws in Alberta, but having a mental health crisis or 'freak out' and your employer having to call 911 is hardly grounds for employment termination, no?

I think it depends on the "Freak out" if it endangers others it can be. I think though that the terminated person can file a complaint and ask for an investigation.

[jschick88]

This is why CP rocks. Complete strangers helping each other out.

No need to feel ashamed Hair Bleach and Vodka. Glad you were able to determine that you needed the help.

[Traditional_Ale]

I am just so proud to be a part of this forum. Well done, everyone.

HBAV, I came on CP a few years back looking for Anger Managment help and everyone was awesome. The great thing about CP is that despite the fact we all argue and bs, when one of us is actually suffering then none of that matters and members step up to help.

[AMG_G]

Hey Kyle it was nice meeting you. I really hope you get your life in order and seek the help you need. I honestly walk by people asking for money 100% of the time but I felt a connection with you. Maybe it was because of CP maybe not but I'm sure you would give me a little boost if I ever needed one.

Hope you will eat everything I got you and don't waste any of it. Remember today does not dictate what tomorrow will be.

All the best.

[Stampede2TheCup]

As hard as it can be, keep pushing yourself to do things to get yourself better. We're all human and everyone has hard times in their life so there's no shame in needing help. I hope this all turns around for you.

[Hair bleach and Vodka]

AGM -- I said I wasn't sure what to say and that remains true. Thank you very much. I always thought I wouldn't mind losing weight..having always been a bigger guy throughout most of my life. These last several months have been a glaring indicator that going from 230 down to 165 isn't healthy the way it's been happening.

I have a full stomach now and food bank is set up. My father is going to come see me asap.

I really need to try and sleep.

[Northendzone]

good luck, and please keep hanging around and update us.

[normtwofinger]

Hang in there HBAV.

I've had depression my entire life, going on 30 years. Now that I have received excellent professional help along with medication, I am finally finding happiness in my life.

You have just gone through the worst part, admitting to your loved ones (your dad) that you need help. It may not seem like it, but it is going to get easier from here. Just please stick to whatever plan you and your professional help develop. I wish you all the best, and if you ever need to chat you can pm me.

[MarchHare]

Originally Posted by MarchHare

Several other posters have already provided you with many useful links and resources, so this may be redundant at this point, but I've also sent a link to this thread to my wife. She's a social worker in Calgary, and although she isn't specifically involved in the type of support you need, I'm sure she knows the right people and organizations for you to contact.

Response from my wife:

A lot of good suggestions have already been made. It sounds like he's already tried a few services, and it can be frustrating to keep trying if he doesn't feel like he's getting the help he needs. At the risk of providing yet another listing of services, this list has some good resources, even though it's pretty outdated (8th & 8th Clinic?!):

http://www.mymentalhealth.ca/Home/Ge...0/Default.aspx

And for help navigating all the options, it can be helpful to start with/go back to a very generalized service like 2-1-1, the Distress Centre, Health Link, or the Access Mental Health line (all on the list above).

[Minnie]

Wish I'd have known this earlier. My daughter and I were downtown for a school function (live theatre) and I'd have happily met you somewhere to buy you a meal. I'm so very glad that others were able to get to you and help you out. I know it won't really help but being the mom I am, the first thing I want to do is just grab you up and give you a really big hug and tell you to hang in there, and to help you out. So consider yourself internet-hugged. I'm also glad your dad is coming to be with you and is being supportive. Good guy.



CP is a pretty awesome place. After reading some of the other threads where you guys have helped people out, and now this one, I remain incredibly impressed with this community as a whole. (got a little tear in my eye now - don't mock me)

[normtwofinger]

I am very proud of CP today. Even though at times it might not seem like it, we really do have a good group of people on here. And not one stupid flyby comment in this thread.