Ottawa – Every day, 12 people die by suicide in Canada. Each life lost by suicide can have far-reaching effects, whether that’s families grappling with the loss of a loved one or the ripple effects that are felt within their communities. On World Suicide Prevention Day, we recognize the impact of suicide on these families and communities, and reiterate our commitment to improving access to mental health supports and preventing suicide across Canada.
Every year, on September 10, people across the world connect in support of Creating Hope Through Action, which is triennial theme (from 2021-2023) for the World Suicide Prevention Day. It reminds us that there is an alternative to suicide and we can all help to make a difference. Supporting the mental health and well-being of people in Canada continues to be a priority for our government. On November 30, 9-8-8, a national three-digit number for suicide prevention and emotional distress will launch in Canada.
Once this helpline launches in Canada, people from coast-to-coast-to-coast will be able to call or text 9-8-8 for 24/7 judgment-free, suicide prevention and emotional distress support. This easy to remember, three-digit number will make it easier for people to access the help they need, when they need it most.
While work is underway to implement 9-8-8, people in Canada continue to have access to Talk Suicide Canada, which offers bilingual crisis and suicide prevention support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Talk Suicide can be reached at 1-833-456-4566 by phone, and by text (in the evenings) at 45645. Residents of Quebec can call 1-866-277-3553, text 535353, or visit suicide.ca for support by online chat. People in Canada can also find support from their local distress centres.
For mental health assistance, Canadians can access the Wellness Together Canada Portal and its companion app PocketWell for free 24/7 educational content, self-guided therapy, moderated peer-to-peer support, and one-to-one counselling with qualified health professionals to support with mental health and substance use.
There is much more work to be done and supporting the mental health and well-being of people in Canada continues to be a priority for our government. Suicide is a public health issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds across the country. We all have a role to play in helping reduce the stigma people experience when they are seeking help for having thoughts of suicide or care for their mental health and well-being. It is important to remember that you are not alone and that help is available. – Mark Holland, P.C., M.P., Ya’ara Saks, P.C., M.P.