By The West Central Crisis & Family Support Centre Staff, September 2016
September 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day
Once you choose hope, anything’s possible – Christopher Reeve
If you want the rainbow, then you’ve got to put up with the rain – Dolly Parton
Who does Suicide effect?
- In the year 2011 suicide was reported as the cause of death for:
- 29 individuals aged 10-14;
- 198 suicides for youth aged 15-19;
- 301 suicides for youth aged 20-24
- Every person who dies by suicide directly impacts at least 10 family members, friends, or colleagues
- People who die by suicide include parents, partners, children, friends, neighbours and those from all socio-economic, age, gender, and cultural groups. No part of society is immune from possible suicide deaths.
Warning Signs
I – Ideation (Suicidal thoughts or saying that they do not want to live anymore)
S – Substance Abuse
P – Purposelessness
A – Anxiety
T – Trapped
H – Hopelessness/Helplessness
W – Withdrawal (Does not enjoy previously loved activities)
A – Anger/Irritable
R – Recklessness
M – Mood changes
How to be Helpful
- Take all threats or attempts seriously
- 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 time line is.
- Be non-judgmental and empathic; 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
- Draw on resources in the person’s network
- Do not use clichés or try to debate with the person
- In an acute crisis take the person to Emergency at the Hospital
- Remove any obvious means e.g. firearms, drugs or sharp objects from the immediate vicinity
- Provide them with 24/7 supports to make them not feel alone Mobile Crisis 1-306-933-6200 & Suicide Helpline 1-800-273-8255
The Crisis Centre Staff would love to assist you in improving your mental well-being. Call (306)463-6655 to speak with a counsellor.
