Sept. 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD), providing an opportunity to raise awareness about a serious struggle many people face.
Dr. Nick Mitchell, provincial medical director for Addictions and Mental Health with Alberta Health Services (AHS), said awareness days like WSPD shine a spotlight on topics like suicide that people can be uncomfortable speaking about.
“Unfortunately, we see suicides happening and taking the life of Albertans throughout the year,” Mitchell said. “An opportunity like this gives us a chance to provide information, make sure people have access to resources and know where the resources are.”
According to the Centre for Suicide Prevention, 556 people died by suicide in Alberta in 2019. Additionally, Alberta’s suicide rate is 12.7 people per 100,000. From 2012 to 2019, 458 people aged 45 to 49 died by suicide – the highest number of any age demographic.
Mitchell said people grieving significant losses, dealing with alcohol and drug abuse issues or facing major life changes are at a higher risk of suicide. A common misconception, he added, is that the act itself is impulsive.
“People will often think that there were no warning signs, but sometimes there are,” he said.
Changes in behaviour, withdrawal, expressions of hopelessness or depression, a change in appetite or a lack of function at school or work may indicate someone is struggling with mental health issues.
“These are warning signs that someone may be contemplating suicide,” Mitchell said. “I think another common misconception is there is nothing that can be done about it. There is help and supports available.”
Mitchell said one of the most important things someone can do when struggling with thoughts of suicide is to reach out and not deal with the issue alone.
“Whether that is reaching out to someone you love and trust or whether that means reaching out for professional help, struggling with it alone is a burden you don’t have to bear,” Mitchell said.
He added during the COVID-19 pandemic, AHS has seen a significant uptick in inquiries about resources and information on mental health and suicide. Calls to the AHS helpline – Health Link 811 – have increased by three times during the pandemic.
Meanwhile, he said, one of the best things people can do for someone they know is struggling is to be available and willing to listen without judgement.
“Make yourself as available as you can be, but you can’t be all things to all people,” Mitchell said. “When it gets to that point, encourage someone to seek help or help point them in the right direction.”
When suicides do occur, it not only impacts the person who dies but also the entire community they are involved in.
“Anger and guilt can be normal reactions,” Mitchell said. “I think for those who have lost someone to suicide, it’s important to note their grief is real and unique. It takes time to heal.”
Many resources exist for people facing mental health issues or thoughts of suicide. Anyone in need of support can call Health Link at 811, the Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2642 and Crisis Services Canada at 833-456-4566. Additionally, text and online options are available for all Alberta youth through calgaryconnecteen.com
Jordan Stricker, AirdrieToday.com
Follow me on Twitter @Jay_Strickz
