World Suicide Prevention Day
Many people have directly been impacted by suicide or know someone who has. Today on World Suicide Prevention Day we have the opportunity to promote an understanding about suicide and highlight effective prevention activities.
Stigma surrounding suicide is a major barrier in having open conversations around suicide. Stigma may prevent people considering suicide from seeking help. A person in a suicidal crisis has typically lost hope and sees no alternative to their deep psychological pain, however we can shine a light into their life to help them see there is hope in living, that help is available and that they’re not alone.
Suicide is preventable. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, reach out for help.
Statistics
- 800,000+ people worldwide die by suicide each year
- 4% of Canadians over 15 years old have thought seriously about suicide in their lifetime
- 3,5000 and 4,000 of Canadians of all ages and all walks of life die by suicide each year
- 2% of all deaths are from suicide
- 24% of all deaths among those aged 15-24 years old are from suicide
- 16% of all deaths among those aged 25-44 years old are from suicide
- LGBTQIA2+ youth are at a higher risk of suicide
- Indigenous youth have a 5-6x higher rate of suicide than non-indigenous youth
- Women attempt suicide 2-3x more than men
- Of all causes of death in Canada, suicide ranks the 9th highest
- An untold number of people are impacted by these deaths - friends, family, colleagues, and communities
Warning Signs of Suicide
- Expressing negative comments about self
- Expressing the intent to die by suicide, including having a plan
- Expressing suicidal thoughts
- Giving away possessions or putting personal affairs in order
- Telling someone their final wishes
- Major changes in behavior (e.g. sleep, appetite, energy, appearance, etc.)
- Repeatedly expressing hopelessness, helplessness, or desperation
Prevention Activities
No single discipline or organization is solely responsible for suicide prevention - it is up to all of us. Talking about suicide makes a difference. It is a myth that asking someone about suicide will make them suicidal. Rather, asking someone about suicide shows that you care, that you realize they may be considering suicide, and that you are ready to talk.
Changing our language of suicide also helps decrease the stigma. Instead of saying committed suicide say died by suicide. Instead of successful or failed suicide say attempted suicide.
Taking a training course such as Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) or Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) can provide more context and tools for having difficult conversations and supporting someone who may be considering suicide.
Practicing self-care helps our own mental health, and helps ensure we show up at our best for those around us. Examples of selfcare include:
- Reflect on what makes you special
- Recharge yourself by taking a break from technology
- Make uninterrupted time for loved ones
- Make a list of the things you are grateful for today
- Thank someone for the happiness they have brought into your life
- Be present with those you are with
- Perform a random act of kindness
- Be willing to ask for help when you need it
- Examine your own attitude towards suicide
Resources
Distress Line: 780-482-4357(HELP)
Canadian Mental Health Association
- Preventing Suicide
- Why? Information for People Who Have Lost a Loved One to Suicide
- Suicide Bereavement Support Group
- Information on Grieving
Alberta Health Services
