September 10 has been designated as “World Suicide Prevention Day” with the theme of ‘Working Together to Prevent Suicide’. The theme highlights the need for collaboration in all sectors. Collectively we can all play a role in preventing suicide.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) each year we lose approximately 800,000 people to suicide, which represents one person every 40 seconds. In Canada alone, we lose close to 11 people a day. When you double those numbers to include those who are making a suicidal attempt the numbers are staggering. Suicide is no protector of race, gender or economic status.
Although these statistics should frighten and worry us, there is much we can do to reduce those numbers. There are various programs you can take to educate yourself on how to help someone who is struggling…..programs through LivingWorks like ASIST; safeTALK; Suicide to Hope, as well other Life Preserving programs like the Feather Carriers. From seeking out the right professional help to medications to being a good friend willing to listen and letting go of judgement, all go a long way to provide support to someone in need.
In Simcoe County we are fortunate to have many resources to educate and provide awareness, as well as supports for those who struggle. One resource is the “Simcoe County Suicide Awareness Council”. Our goal is: “To provide a culture of hope and support to those affected by suicide, while increasing awareness and understanding through education”.On September 10, 2018 from 6-7:30pm, please join us at Peacekeepers Park in Angus as we donate a Memorial Bench to the Township of Essa.
If you are unable to join us, please consider lighting a candle near a window at 8pm to show support for suicide prevention and to remember those who have died by suicide, as well as those impacted by the loss. For more information on our council and our work, please visit:
www.starttalking.ca/simcoe-county-suicide-awareness-council/
Submitted by: Simcoe County Suicide Awareness Council
