World Suicide Prevention Day

        According to the World Health Organization, on average, almost 3,000 people commit suicide every day. Every 30 seconds, the loss of a person who killed himself or herself shatters the lives of family and friends. For every person who completes a suicide, 20 or more may attempt suicide. On September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day will focus attention on the devastating impact of suicide and methods of prevention. Jennifer White, an assistant professor in the University of Victoria’s School of Child and Youth Care, has practiced in the field of suicide prevention since 1988.
        “While suicide is a multifaceted problem that emerges out of a complex array of interacting risk factors, many of these deaths are preventable,” says White. “Family, friends, co-workers, schools, family physicians and mental health service providers all have a role to play in preventing suicide. By knowing the warning signs of suicide, by encouraging those who are struggling with depression or other mental health concerns to get help, and by responding compassionately to those who have lost a loved one to suicide, we can all make a difference.”
        Worldwide, suicide rates have increased by 60 per cent over the last 50 years, and the increase has been particularly marked in developing countries. Although reported suicide is now among the three leading global causes of death among young people aged 15-34 years, the majority of suicides are reported in adults and older adults (60 years and older). For more information visit www.iasp.info/ and www.suicidology.org/associations/1045/files/AtAGlance.pdf

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