It’s World Suicide Prevention Day, which is a day about reminding each other that help is always available.
Police services across Alberta are reminding people who are struggling to reach out, as you are not alone.
According to the Program Manager for the Victim/Witness Services with the Lethbridge Police Service, Cat Pooley, if suicide touches someone’s life, it leaves an indelible mark.
Pooley adds that by changing the narrative around suicide, it helps to empowers the people around those who are suicidal to start learning about what resources and what opportunities are available, so they know what to watch for and how they can help.
Also, this helps to support those who are supporting others in their lives.
If anyone suspects someone they care about is struggling with suicide, Pooley suggests to start a conversation with the person, and don’t worry about asking the hard questions.
Pooley adds that simply asking someone about their mental health could take pressure off the person contemplating suicide, because now they can tell the truth about how they are feeling.
For anyone who is needing help, there are ways to get help:
9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline, which can be reached 24/7
Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310, which is a 24/7 for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples
The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line can be reached at 1-866-925-4419. This is a 24/7 service for survivors and their families
The MMIWG Crisis Line can be reached at 1-844-413-6649, and is a 24/7 service for those impacted by Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people
Health Link can be reached at 8-1-1, and is a 24/7 service for advice, support, and referrals
The Alberta Mental Health Help Line can be reached at 1-877-303-2642, and is for 24/7 mental health support and crisis intervention
Calgary ConnecTeen can be reached at 403-264-TEEN, or by text at 587-333-2724, or online.
Comments