Ottawa – Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health said: “Every day in Canada, approximately 12 people die by suicide. The impacts of suicide extend far beyond the individual – each life lost sends ripples of pain through family, friends, and communities.
“As we mark World Suicide Prevention Day, let us remember those lives lost to suicide and help Change the Narrative on Suicide, this year’s theme, by breaking the silence and encouraging open conversations about mental health. It is important to remember that you are not alone, and that help is available when and where you need it.
“The 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is helping connect those in need, through calls and texts, with trained responders who can offer trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate suicide prevention support. Whether you or someone you know is thinking about suicide or harming themselves, grieving someone who died by suicide, or worried about someone else thinking about suicide, 9-8-8 is available to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year, in both English and French. Since it launched last November, 9-8-8 responders have answered more than 234,100 calls and texts from people across the country.
“Some communities in Canada are disproportionately impacted by suicide, including, men and boys, people serving federal sentences, survivors of suicide loss and suicide attempts, 2SLGBTQIA+ groups, and some First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, especially among youth. To help serve these vulnerable populations and to address gaps in equity, diversion and inclusion, the Government of Canada is funding the Distress Line Equity Fund. Local community distress lines and support centres know their clientele well and are able to provide customized, culturally appropriate services. When it comes to mental health, there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
“Through recent investments in Kids Help Phone and the recently announced Youth Mental Health Fund, the Government of Canada is taking action to help younger Canadians access the mental health care they need. The National Suicide Prevention Action Plan brings together provinces, territories, Indigenous partners, and suicide prevention stakeholders to coordinate actions on suicide prevention and life promotion.
“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 to reduce the stigma people experience when they are seeking help for having thoughts of suicide or caring for their mental health and well-being.
“The Government of Canada will continue to work together with provinces, territories, and all partners to strengthen our collective efforts to save lives. We can’t do this alone. Together, we can bring hope to individuals and communities affected by suicide.“