In memory of Gord Downie - Depression Suite - Are you going through something?

Today Canada lost their music icon Gord Downie from the Tragically Hip to cancer. Everyone is celebrating his life and the great impact he had, from the Prime Minster, to musicians, activists and many Canadians that crossed paths with him during his 51 years.

Gord Downie was a great poet and we wanted to celebrate his life through his music and beautiful poetry he created during his life. A great poem has the ability to resonate with many and yet seem so intimately unique to each person.

The song we want to celebrate is Depression Suite. The song is a combination of three different songs, which is where it got it's name and it's also a favourite of contemporary Canadian poet, Tanis Rideout. As she put it best "There’s such scope to the song; how it starts in the claustrophobia of hiding in a hotel room and ends up on the wind-scoured sweep of the barrens".

Those who've experienced depression might be able to related to the first part of this song, as it seems to capture that feeling eloquently.

Starting out with:
"Under the pillow I bury my head and try to shut Chicago out"
Trying to isolate ourself and shutting everything out.

Followed by:
"are you going through something?"
As Gord is reaching out, know that there are people out there that care about you and want you to share how you are feeling with them.

Finally:
"cuz I-I-I-I I am too"
That you are not alone and this experience is far too common and people can help you get out of it.

Let's celebrate his life through his music. You can enjoy the full version of the song below:

He will be missed but remembered for all that he has done for Canada.

Are you going through something? You are not alone.

Kasra Zokaei

CIMHS Centre for Interactive Mental Health Solutions

Founder and Executive Director