Today might be the most important day recognized to someone and you probably don’t even know who or why. Today is World Suicide Prevention Day, a topic most try not to think of, let alone discuss. I know the hyperlink takes you to some USA facts, but the numbers for Canada are just as disturbing (even though this is an older document), with our province reporting approximately 100 victims each year alone.
So what can we do?
These past few years especially have been even more trying than anyone has been used to.
Acknowledging that suicide is a difficult topic to discuss, how can we help?
The biggest suggestions I have found are to work to reduce social stigma. Raise awareness and make sure those that need help can find the help they need.
Here are the suicide support lines for Nova Scotia:
Need help now?
Mental Health Crisis Line (toll-free, 24/7)
1-888-429-8167
Kids Help Phone (toll-free, 24/)
1-800-668-6868
Or call 911 or go to your closest emergency department.
Here is some more information around suicide prevention in Canada as well:
On a world level there are some events planned around today as well. Here is the link to “Creating Hope Through Action”
This is the best line I have always found to describe how most feel around this topic, myself included.
