*To protect the identity of our service users, we have used the pseudonym Saira.*
Imagine opening up to a therapist about your mental health, only to discover that you’ve been misdiagnosed. Even more disheartening, your diagnosis is changed not just once, but twice more. This was the reality for Saira.
Initially diagnosed with schizophrenia, then bipolar disorder, and eventually chronic depression, she felt anxious, terrified, and unsure of how to tackle her mental health concerns. Despite these feelings, Saira refused to give up.
Referred to Across Boundaries in 2000, Saira received case management and social rehabilitation services. Through consistent, critical conversations with case managers and psychiatrists, she finally found tools that helped her understand and cope with her mental health challenges in a culturally specific, anti-oppressive way.
Case managers, belonging to similar racialized communities, were able to support her without judgment or stereotypes and provide anti-racist, anti-oppressive care that served to externalize Saira’s experiences of oppressions so that she could concentrate on her self care.
Saira credits the Across Boundaries staff in helping her begin her professional life. Whether it was receiving tips on nutrition, help with creating a resume, or assistance in her job search, Saira found that her case manager was able to provide holistic support at all times.
“They [case managers] believe that we are capable of so much more. It [Across Boundaries] felt like a family, a second home even. I could feel that they believed in me.”
Based on her journey and personal experience, Saira wants people to know how vital it is to seek professional support.
“What people may not realize is that just getting out of our houses can be tough. Taking public transit and facing so many people can be overwhelming. But to come here [at Across Boundaries] and be welcomed, it’s such a great feeling. It really helps us to get out the door.”
As an advocate of mental well-being, Saira now participates at various events as a public speaker. She has spoken at Across Boundaries’ Annual General Meetings as a guest speaker including several in-house events.
Recently, she also published a book called The Hero. The book centers on the idea that each one of us has a hero in our lives. The main character, an immigrant who struggles with her mental health after moving from India to Canada, is saved by someone. Sometimes, all you need is to hear that others have faith in you, even if you doubt yourself. The main lesson Saira wants readers to take away is that the character’s life was worth saving – and so are all of ours.
While chronic depression can be exhausting, Saira managed to channel her struggles into a positive force.
“I think my mental health journey has taught me to work with other people who need that help. Even though I came into this needing help, now it’s my turn to help others.”
We are so grateful that Saira was able to benefit from Across Boundaries’ unique support, and successfully utilize the strategies and approaches to enhance her wellbeing to become the resilient, independent woman she is today.
We hope Saira’s story serves as an inspiration, showing that current struggles are not permanent, and they do not have to define your future.
Your mental health can’t wait. At Across Boundaries, we’re here for you. Find out how we can assist your recovery journey by contacting us at info@acrossboundaries.ca
