A British Columbia family is sharing their son’s story in the hope of breaking stigma around mental illness and helping others recognize warning signs that can go unnoticed.
From an early age, Haider Nayani’s family says his talents stood out. His mother, Farida Nayani, recalls his natural gift for public speaking, while his younger brother, Saif, describes him as intelligent, charismatic and instantly likeable. Haider excelled academically, graduating as valedictorian from Port Moody Secondary, earning a degree in economics, completing the broadcast journalism program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology, and later thriving in marketing and sales roles.
Despite his achievements, Haider struggled to find his place professionally. In hindsight, his family believes this restlessness may have been an early sign of an undiagnosed illness. In his mid-20s, Haider began experiencing depression and was prescribed antidepressants. Last year, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, began seeing a psychiatrist and started new medication.
Several months later, Haider sought help again, admitting himself to Vancouver General Hospital. After several days of treatment, he was discharged. Within days, Haider died. He was 31.
For his family, the loss is especially painful because they say Haider followed all the steps commonly encouraged for people struggling with their mental health. “He talked to his friends, he talked to his family, he talked to a psychiatrist, he went to the hospital, he took the medication,” Saif said. “He did everything right.”
Mental health advocates note that conversations about mental illness remain difficult for many Canadians, particularly within racialized communities where stigma can be more pronounced. Despite their grief, the Nayani family has chosen to speak openly, urging people not to dismiss symptoms or assume depression is the only explanation.
“If you have any doubt, please get tested for bipolar disorder,” Farida said, noting that the condition can be difficult to identify and easily overlooked.
In Haider’s memory, the family is establishing the Haider Nayani Storytelling Award, a scholarship for journalism students at BCIT aimed at supporting those who want to amplify underrepresented voices — a cause Haider deeply believed in.
The family hopes that by sharing his story, others may feel less alone and more empowered to seek the right kind of help.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:
- Canada Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health: 1-800-463-2338
- Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
If there is immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.