In Canada, suicide claims the lives of more than 3,500 people each year, and in 2010, more than 450 deaths in British Columbia were attributed to suicide.
Hospitalization due to self-harming and suicidal behaviours is even more common. Between 2010 and 2011, there were more than 2,800 self-inflicted injuries that required hospitalization in B.C.; some involved children as young as 10 years old.
Not only are the emotional impacts of suicide widespread, affecting millions of Canadians, including family, friends and communities, the financial impact is also significant. In 2010-2011, the direct health-care costs associated with suicide and suicide attempts in B.C. were more than $20 million.
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention has resources available online to support suicide prevention at www.suicideprevention.ca.
The launch of the Interior Crisis Line Network this past year means all Interior Health residents now have around-the-clock access to telephone support when they need assistance managing personal concerns at 1-888-353-CARE (2273).
Help is also available for those who are feeling suicidal through local Mental Health and Substance Use Services, family physicians and hospitals.
There will be a Suicide Awareness Gathering and Concert at Williams Lake Secondary School, Sept. 25 at 3:30 p.m. For information, contact Bettina Schoen at 250-305-4420 or bettina.schoen@cmhawl.org.