Facts

• One in twenty-five Canadians attempts suicide during their lifetime.
• More than 3,500 Canadians commit suicide each year (Health Lifestyle).
• Suicide is the third leading cause of death among people aged 15 – 24 (Healthier You).
• Depression often precedes thoughts of suicide and can be caused by numerous factors ranging from biological, psychological, environmental or a combination of all three (Medicine Net).
• It’s estimated that 8 out of 10 people who attempt suicide or die by suicide hinted about or made some mention of their plans. Often, those warning signs are directed at a friend (CMHA).
• In a survey of 15,000 grade 7 to 12 students in British Columbia, 34% knew of someone who had attempted or died by suicide; 16% had seriously considered suicide; 14% had made a suicide plan; 7% had made an attempt and 2% had required medical attention due to an attempt (CMHA).
• Talking calmly about suicide, without showing fear or making judgments, can bring relief to someone who is feeling terribly isolated. A willingness to listen shows sincere concern; encouraging someone to speak about their suicidal feelings can reduce the risk of an attempt (CMHA).

Signs and Risk Factors

• Stress
• Depression
• Bullying
• Rejection
• Loneliness
• Disappointment
• Major life changes

Warning Signs

• Talking about suicide
• Preoccupation with death
• Suddenly happy and calm
• Giving possessions away
• Decreased work/activity performance
• Unnecessary risk taking
• Drug and alcohol abuse
• Appetite and weight changes
• Loss of interest in things the person usually cares about
• Statements about worthlessness, helplessness and hopelessness
• Putting one’s affairs in order
• Stop caring about appearance
• Sleepiness or sleeplessness
• Low self esteem

If you are feeling suicidal or if you suspect that someone is suicidal, seek help immediately. If someone threatens suicide, it should be taken seriously and not dismissed as an empty cry for attention. Talk to your parents, teachers, brothers, sisters, counselors, police or your family doctor. If you feel the same feelings as those described above, talk to someone. Remember that you are not alone. If someone has attempted suicide and needs medical attention, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency services number immediately.

Those who have these thoughts often feel they are a burden, so it’s important to reassure them that they are loved and that losing them would be devastating.

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