Submitted by Brian McHattie
As part of the regular Sources of Knowledge Talk series, Tobermory United Church Minister, Brad Inglis joined us on February 27, 2020 at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre to speak about his own mental health challenges with the primary message being: many of us have similar challenges and it is ok, even mandatory to talk about it!
Brad began in his usual entertaining fashion by noting that his sermons are never longer than nine minutes so a longer speech beyond that was iffy, but never fear, he had brought enough carrot cake for everyone (“carrot cake hides all sins”)! He reminded us that we all have the capacity to stretch ourselves, and that in his case taking singing lessons with the associated endorphin rush (thanks Marty!) will help any shy, learned extrovert thrive!
Low self-esteem, depression, shifting moods and energy changes have been companions (not friends) to Brad his whole life, stimulating feelings of never feeling good enough. In Brad’s case, offset to some extent by childhood teachers finding him funny (as many of us do), even employing Brad to answer the school phone when office staff were busy!
From early on, Brad sought help: connecting with his family doctor, men’s groups, engagements with different forms of medication, and working with a therapist (talk therapy) who he continues to see today. As a boy growing up in Guelph he and his cohorts would make up stories about the Homewood Mental Health Centre, a scary place full of frightening crazy people. As chronic depression continued its grip on Brad, he found himself admitted to Homewood and it was … fine, and a place that helped Brad at a critical time in his life.
Following an intensive period at Homewood, Brad began ‘bitter days’ piecing his life back together, re-learning what he had lost sight of – self-esteem, learned compassion, humility, and re-developing his belief in a healing God with supports from family and friends. In 2010, he entered the seminary and in an act that was to change Tobermory forever for the better, began his student ministry in a place he had always loved.
Part of Brad’s presentation included a wonderful YouTube video, Black Dog – check it out. Brad closed by extolling the virtues of the Grey-Bruce Health Services system with strong supports on mental health, including staff at our own Bruce Family Health Team, including a social worker.
Depression will be with Brad likely for the rest of his life – his humble advice to all of us, either sufferers or those looking to help: talk about it, write about it, practice compassion, don’t give up, be gentle and nurturing, and rest when you need to. He closed by reminding us none of us need be alone in this caring community – let’s talk!
And with that in mind, noting the tough weather the evening of February 27, a number of folks have asked Brad to share a second talk and he has agreed to do so on Sunday April 19 at 2 p.m. at Tobermory United Church.
