Today, on International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, we remember those we've lost to suicide, and the loved ones left behind. Suicide can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender or background and it leaves complex feelings of loss and grief for survivors.
Our country is facing a mental health crisis with an average of 12 people dying by suicide each day in Canada. This is a horrific tragedy for our country. Every person lost to suicide leaves behind grief-stricken family, friends and loved ones who struggle to pick up the pieces.
While we have made progress towards talking openly about our mental health and suicide prevention, we must do more to make it easier for anyone who is struggling to seek help.
Whether it is taking time to learn about available supports or listening to those who need us, we all have a role to play in helping to prevent suicide in our communities.
We are working to ensure every single Canadian has access to critical mental health and substance use resources, including suicide prevention services.
Starting on November 30, 2023, people in Canada will be able to call or text 9-8-8 for 24/7 judgment-free suicide prevention support. For someone who is at their lowest point, a caring voice on the other end of the phone can be a lifeline.
Until November 30, Talk Suicide Canada is available for free, and it is a confidential crisis support. Call 1-833-456-4566, or text 45645 in the evenings. This service offers bilingual crisis support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Quebec residents can call 1-866-277-3553 or visit suicide.ca for support by text and online chat. Children and young adults can contact Kids Help Phone for mental health support by texting CONNECT to 686 868 from anywhere in Canada, at any time.
For culturally competent support, Indigenous people can also contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line by calling 1-855-242-3310. Telephone and online counselling are available in English and French. On request, telephone counselling is also available in Cree, Inuktitut and Ojibway.
If you are thinking about suicide, we want you to know that you are not alone and that help is available.
The Honourable Mark Holland, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable Ya'ara Saks, P.C., M.P
