Prince George therapist looks to help those struggling over the holiday season

You often see messages of cheer and joy throughout the holidays, but for some, the holidays can be the darkest time of year.

A Prince George therapist is looking to provide some relief for people who need someone. 

Kaila McAnulty has been in the city since 2011, has held her own practice for just over two years and wants to give back to the community this Christmas.  

"For many the holidays are a joyous time full of love and laughter, but for others it can be a difficult and depressing time," she told PrinceGeorgeMatters. 

"Highest rates of suicide often occur around Christmas and our community needs to be more aware of this ongoing issue. I hope to offer my services in order to provide a listening ear to those who are struggling this time of year. It isn’t very much, but it is something I can do to hopefully alleviate some of the burden that the holidays have on some people." 

While doctors and therapists are usually there to help others, they also have personal connections to mental health issues outside of their offices and McAnulty is no different.

She said she's had several people in her life attempt suicide or commit suicide and some were during the holidays. 

"I have always considered myself to be an advocate for suicide prevention and therefore have wanted to offer anything that may prove to be helpful for those in my community who are struggling," she added. 

According to data from the BC Coroners Service, the months of December and January from 2007 to 2017 have recorded a total of 982 suicide deaths in the province. 

In July of this year, the data also showed the Northern Health Authority has the highest suicide rate in B.C.

The latest numbers from 2017 with the health authority recording almost 17.7 deaths by suicide per 100,000 persons. 

The northern interior region, which includes Prince George, recorded 25 suicide deaths in 2017 compared to 22 in 2016.

The highest means of suicide deaths in the province for 2017 were hanging (225), firearms (97), and poisoning including alcohol and drugs (84).

McAnulty says the offer is something she would like to do each year. She's originally from Kitimat and usually goes home for the holidays, but is staying in the area this year and wanted to jump on the chance she had.

"My goal is to provide a non-judgmental, warm and compassionate interaction with anyone who needs emotional support," McAnulty added. "I also hope to provide awareness of the prevalency of suicide and depression around the holidays; to remind others that even the smallest gestures can go a long way. We never know what others are going through, so it is important to always act with kindness."

She's been practicing counseling for close to 15 years and has a very extensive background. 

Most of her career has been working with people with various mental health and addictions concerns, mainly depression and anxiety. She's worked in psychiatric units, schools, detox centers and even maximum-security prisons. 

But also throughout her career and learning, she has researched and specialized in sexuality and forensics. 

"So since 2017, I have been practicing primarily as a sex therapist," she said. "I still dedicate about a third of my practice to mental health and addictions, however."

The sessions on Dec. 21 are 30 minutes or you can also drop-in. The sessions are open to any demographic including any of McAnulty's current clients.

You can call or text 250-639-7080 or email [email protected].

If you or someone you know is struggling, you can text CONNECT to 686868 (the Kids Help Line) or call 1-800-668-6868.

You can also reach the Prince George chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association at 250-564-8644.

If you are thinking about ending your life or are concerned about someone who is, you can call 1-800-784-2433 or 911.