Ottawa, ON – “Tomorrow, World Suicide Prevention Day, sends an important message throughout Canada and the world—the majority of suicides can be prevented.
This year’s theme of connect, communicate, care gets to the heart of suicide prevention.
Reaching out to someone who is disconnected due to despair can be a life-saving act. We need to communicate openly about suicide as we would any other public health issue if we are to reduce the stigma that stops people from seeking help.
While starting a conversation about suicide can feel intimidating, it is often the first step towards reducing the risk of suicide. Resources are available to help you recognize the warning signs of suicide and how to talk about suicide with the person you’re worried about.
I also encourage you to join me and add your message of hope to the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s online wall. Together, we can spread hope by connecting, communicating and showing we care.
If you are in distress, please reach out. If someone you know is in trouble, connect.
Everyone has a role in preventing suicide. I encourage you to read the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s foundational document, Changing Directions, Changing Lives: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada and its adaptation, The Mental Health Strategy for Canada: A Youth Perspective to see where you fit in as an individual, a teacher, a leader, a parent, a friend. Suicide prevention is woven throughout the Strategy and addresses early identification, timely access to services, treatments and supports, and the reduction of the stigma associated with mental health problems and illnesses.”
ABOUT THE MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION OF CANADA
Guided by Changing Directions, Changing Lives: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada, the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) is a catalyst for improving the mental health system and changing the attitudes and behaviours of Canadians around mental health – at home, work, and school, as well as with the media and healthcare providers – from coast to coast to coast. Through its unique mandate from Health Canada, the Commission is Canada’s coordinating agent, bringing together the best and most influential minds in the mental health community. The MHCC is collaborating with hundreds of partners towards a mental health system that is inclusive, adaptable, and supports Canadians living with mental health problems and mental illnesses in their recovery journey. Together we accelerate change needed to transform Canada’s mental health system and the wellbeing of all.
www.mentalhealthcommission.ca | strategy.mentalhealthcommission.ca
Media Contact:
Hélène Côté, Senior Communications Advisor, Marketing and Communications
Mental Health Commission of Canada
Office: 613.683.3952
Mobile: 613.857.0840
hcote@mentalhealthcommission.ca
