Recognizing the risk factors and signs of suicidal thoughts can be helpful in preventing death by suicide, Alberta Health Services said Tuesday.
World Suicide Prevention Day was marked Tuesday.
“Suicide is a tragedy that affects families, friends and communities,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Dan Williams said Tuesday in a news release.
“Today is an opportunity both to show support for those who are struggling and to raise awareness by breaking the silence in order to ensure society does not forget the tragic loss of every single life from all forms of suicide.”
People can be more at risk of suicide when they experience barriers accessing social and health services, mental illness, traumatic life events, family violence, discrimination or have a diagnosis of a serious physical illness.
Talking about suicide is one of the most effective means of reducing stigma and supporting those in need.
“Suicide is a complex issue, but it’s preventable,” Williams said. “Understanding the risk factors, recognizing warning signs and knowing how to provide support can save lives.”
Alberta Health Services said in adults, warning signs of potential suicidal thoughts or plans include:
- Talking or writing about wanting to die or to hurt or kill themselves or someone else.
- Saying they feel hopeless, trapped, without purpose, in pain, or like they’re a burden to others.
- Looking for ways to harm themselves. For example, they might buy a gun or stockpile medicines.
- Increasing their use of alcohol or drugs.
- Withdrawing from family, friends and activities.
- Seeming angry, grumpy, anxious or depressed.
- Eating or sleeping less or more than usual.
- Doing risky things, such as driving too fast.
- Giving away their belongings.
“To any child, youth, parent or individual who may be feeling alone, know that your homes, schools, workplaces and communities are a better place because you are here,” said Searle Turton, minister of children and family services.
“If you need someone to talk to, please reach out to speak to a mental health professional on-line or in person. Help is available.”
People are encouraged to use the REACH Pathway to help remember what you can do to support someone who is struggling:
- Recognize when someone is struggling.
- Engage in conversation and listen with empathy.
- Ask directly about suicidal thoughts and feelings.
- Connect to support and resources.
- Heal yourself by taking care of your own mental health.
If you or somebody you know is struggling, there are resources to help:
- Mental Health Help Line: 1-877-303-2642.
- 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Help Line.
- Kids Help Phone: kidshelpphone.ca or 1-800-668-6868.
- Indigenous Hope for Wellness Hot Line 1-855-242-3310.
- Canada Suicide Prevention Service: 1-833-456-4566, visit crisisservicescanada.ca, or text 45645.
- National Trans Lifeline: Visit translifeline.org or call 1-877-330-6366
- Learn more at MyHealth.Alberta.ca.
- Health Link 811.
