Suicide prevention matters all year round
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 06/11/2023 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
No matter the national month, suicide prevention is important.
Even though Mental Health Awareness Month is recognized each May, since seasons are changing and snow is beginning to fall, I believe right now is one of the most important times to bring an understanding to this subject. In Canada, suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15 to 34-year-olds, (data from the Government of Canada) while cancer is the first.
A horrifying twelve people die by taking their own lives each day in Canada, and here’s what we can do as a community to lessen this statistic. Check-in more regularly with the people close to you. Encourage treatment, there are multiple outlets here in Brandon for support: Canadian Addiction Treatment Centres is located at 1240 10th Street; Westman Mobile Crisis Unit is at 404 on 13th Street; Public Mental Health Services is at 800 Rosser Ave.
Helplines are also exceedingly useful for times of crisis. The 24/7 Manitoba Suicide Prevention & Support Line number is 1-877-435-7170, and the Kids Help Phone line is 1-800-668-6868, also a 24/7 support. Staying safe is the highest priority, always.
Some signs and symptoms to look out for in someone who may be struggling with suicidal tendencies are loss of interest in things that used to give them joy, substance abuse, self-harm, hopelessness, etc. Masking these behaviours can make them tricky signs to pick up on. The happiest of people could be struggling under the pretense of being fine, but with the help of observing, listening, and being there for those around you, you can make a difference in that person’s world.
Anyone could be struggling — it sounds like a cliché, but it is true. With the resurgence of celebrity death and drug abuse in recent media, it is a topic that always needs to be brought up. Prevent suicide year-round, not just in the month of May.
» Sara Gilbert is a Grade 12 student at École secondaire Neelin High School