CMHA HKPR recognizes World Suicide Prevention Day 2020

CMHA HKPR joins the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) in inviting all individuals and communities to find a way to recognize and support World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) on September 10th. It can be as simple as sending a message to those who are in despair, those who are grieving, and those who are supporting someone who is struggling with life’s challenges. By spreading the word that hope, help and healing are possible, we can work together to prevent suicide.

This World Suicide Prevention Day, in lieu of our traditional vigil, we’re asking that individuals light a candle and place it in their window at 8 p.m. to show your support for suicide prevention or to remember a lost loved one.

CASP estimates that each day in Canada, 10 people end their life and 200 make a suicide attempt. Suicide occurs across all age, economic, social, and ethnic boundaries.

CMHA HKPR offers crisis support for those who need help immediately. Four County Crisis is available at no-cost, 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1-866-995-9933 or 705-745-6484.

Talking about suicide can provide relief and being a listener is the best intervention anyone can give. Here are a few ways you can help:

• Take all threats or attempts seriously.
• Be aware and learn warning signs of suicide.
• Be direct and ask if the person is thinking of suicide. If the answer is yes, ask if the person has a plan and what the timeline is.
• Be non-judgmental and empathetic.
• Do not minimize the feelings expressed by the person.
• Do not be sworn to secrecy…seek out the support of appropriate professionals.
• Ask if there is anything you can do.

To help create a suicide-safer community, we offer various training opportunities such as Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), Mental Health First Aid and safeTALK. For more information about these courses, contact Jack Veitch, Manager of Community Engagement and Education at jveitch@cmhahkpr.ca or by calling 705-748-6687 extension 1015.

For more information or to learn more about the suicide prevention or positive mental health, visit CASP or contact CMHA HKPR at 705-748-6687 or info@cmhahkpr.ca.