We are calling on the South Asian community to raise their voices to help save lives. The Silence is Killing Us. We are calling on the younger South Asian generation to help spark the change that is needed in their homes. You have the power to break through generations of silence and stigma.

Ending the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction within the South Asian community is a challenging and unspoken issue. Many are grappling silently with various mental health concerns. Those who are struggling, turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as binge drinking to self-medicate. The shame and guilt that paralyzes the South Asian community from seeking help can have a negative ripple effect on the family.

“What will people say or think about our family?”

This phrase is very common in the South Asian community. Families strongly emphasize “honour” which includes maintaining the family name and reputation, as well as keeping a positive public image. The effects can be severe and irreversible when those individuals who are seeking help,  are made to feel guilty for their decision. Doing so would jeopardize their family status and cause their parents pain.

Due to the intricate nature of South Asian culture, women’s problems tend to be silenced. Fear-mongering is a reality for women within this culture and they are reluctant to step forward to share concerns. The following is the story of Karandeep Gill which she shared in the hopes of reaching people struggling in silence in her own community.

The high school student struggled — unable to tell her family — as she planned her own death.

“I had a suicide note that I put in my backpack,” she said. “I went to school the next day, went to the washroom and took a bottle of pills. At the moment, it was a euphoric feeling because I'm like, ‘Oh my God my misery is going to be gone.’ But then I broke down crying.” 

Sign this petition as your commitment to bettering our community and saving lives.