Each small moment can add up to make a big difference.
That’s the message individuals, organizations, policy makers and advocates are sharing this year to commemorate World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) on September 10.
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) estimates that each day in Canada, 11 people end their life and 210 make a suicide attempt. Suicide occurs across all age, economic, social, and ethnic boundaries. The tragedy of suicide impacts the entire community.
Raising awareness opens doors to help, hope and healing. CASP is encouraging Canadians to participate in WSPD and take a minute to:
- Wear a suicide prevention ribbon
- Speak up and share the message on social media that help is available
- Reach out to a friend or family member who may be struggling and ask them if they want to talk
CMHA Sault Ste. Marie also invites you to light a candle on September 10th to show your support for suicide prevention, to remember a lost loved one, and for the survivors of suicide. For more details please visit the World Suicide Prevention Day website.
CMHA Sault Ste. Marie offers the Central Access and Information service, where you can speak with an Access Worker who will be able to provide you with information and referrals to the mental health and addictions services that are available in the Algoma District. CMHA Sault Ste. Marie offers training’s to help people recognize and respond to people who may be having thoughts of suicide. For further information please see the safeTALK and ASIST sections of our website, keep up with out current Events, or contact Central Access and Information to find out about upcoming training’s. If you are in a crisis and require immediate assistance:
- go to the Sault Area Hospital at 750 Great Northern Road, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
- go to the nearest hospital
- call 24 Hour Crisis Response at 705-759-3398 or 1-800-721-0077
- call 911
Though not all suicides can be prevented, some strategies can help reduce the risk, such as:
- Seeking treatment, care and support for mental health concerns — and building a good relationship with a doctor or other health professionals
- Staying connected with a care team or community-based program to help manage stress and monitor for thoughts of suicide
- Building social support networks, such as family, friends, a peer support or support group, or connections with a cultural or faith community
- Learning good coping skills to deal with problems, and trusting in coping abilities
Universal prevention strategies recommended by the World Health Organization also include increasing access to health care and responsible media reporting.
For more information or to learn more about suicide prevention or positive mental health, contact CMHA Sault Ste. Marie at 705-759-5989 or by e-mail at information@cmhassm.com.