Suicide Awareness Month
According to the Government of Canada, approximately 4,500 people die by suicide in Canada every year. September is Suicide Awareness month and we wanted to highlight a few common warning signs that might highlight that someone is thinking about suicide. Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation (988lifeline). If you notice any of these warning signs in yourself or a loved one, check in or contact any of the resources below.
Suicide Warning Signs
- Feeling worthless
- A sense of hopelessness or no hope for the future
- Mood and behavior changes
- Engaging in risky behaviors
- A history of suicidal behavior
- Increased Alcohol and/or drug use
- Talking about being a burden to those around them
Here are a few ways you can support someone who may be thinking about suicide:
- Listen to them
- Let them know they are not alone
- Connect them with:
- A crisis line
- Doctor
- Counsellor
- Trusted family member, friend or elder.
If you yourself are struggling and want to seek out help, feel free to use the resources provided or contact us and we can set you up with one of our counsellors.
Resources
- Vancouver Island Crisis Line: 1-844-3888
- Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566 (24/7) or text 45645 (4 PM – 12 AM ET).
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free) or text CONNECT to 686868.
- Hope for Wellness – 1-855-242-3310 (toll-free) or connect to the Hope for Wellness chat (Available to all Indigenous peoples across Canada)
Written by Melissa Laird