The hardest, best job: Kristina’s path to mental health recovery

When Kristina Zurich, Lived Experience Faculty with SafeSide Prevention, lost a loved one to suicide as a teenager, she couldn't comprehend it. 

Years later, after her own suicide attempts, Kristina gained a new perspective on the pain behind such acts.

“That struggle can be there, you know, at any time, no matter how good the exterior might look,” she said. 

The theme for Suicide Prevention Day 2024 is Changing the Narrative. In light of the complexity of this issue, the newsletters for this month (which is widely recognised as Suicide Prevention Month) will highlight different aspects of the theme. 

Kristina’s own struggles began early, although her mental health issues went undiagnosed for years. 

"My story is not atypical for someone who struggled from their teens without knowing what they were struggling with," she explained. 

"It turns out that I have bipolar disorder, and I take a mood stabiliser now. I work really hard with different therapies that I've integrated into my life and my language."

Her experience with suicide is multifaceted, including her own near-fatal attempts a decade ago. 

Losing loved ones to suicide has also illuminated how suicide loss can make the possibility of suicide seem more feasible for others.

"When someone experiences suicide in their life, it can make something that seems, like not ever going to happen, maybe inevitable or more realistic," Kristina said. 

"A big part of what I do now is trying to help people see past that."

A decade into recovery, Kristina emphasises that the journey isn't linear. She prioritises self-care, especially after speaking as an advocate, which can be emotionally draining. 

While advocacy keeps her experience at the forefront, she has worked to ensure that it doesn't define her entirely.

"I am a daughter, a sister, a wife. I am passionate about palliative care, housing, and food security."

"I am proud of how hard I have worked in recovery and what that has helped me achieve 

“Although arduous, recovery is the greatest gift. While it is literally the hardest job I've ever had, it's the best job I've ever had … it's a gift we give ourselves."

To fellow advocates sharing their lived experiences, Kristina stresses the importance of boundaries and self-care. 

"When you tell your story, you offer yourself, your most vulnerable self. It takes a lot out of you," she said. 

"So don't underestimate how powerful it is when you tell your story to give yourself the gift of the space you need to replenish yourself."