On World Suicide Prevention Day, September 10, Island Health mental health and injury prevention experts are encouraging everyone to break the silence surrounding suicide and to make space for help and hope.
“Part of prevention of suicide is social connection,” says Acute Mental Health and Substance Use Manager Harveen Dhaliwal, who works at Royal Jubilee Hospital. “Stigma creates reluctance to reach out and can make people feel even more isolated when they most need support. When we reduce stigma and create safe spaces for people to talk, we open the door for hope and healing.”
Some people are reluctant to discuss mental health concerns, including suicide, with their loved ones, friends or care providers. The purpose of World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is to raise awareness, including of supports available, to break down barriers and create better cultures of understanding and support. This year’s theme, “Change the narrative on suicide”, suggests normalizing conversations about the topic.
Conversations can be impactful, especially when done in a supportive and direct way, says Melanee Szafron, Director of Acute and Community Services for South Island and Regional Tertiary Care. “You know yourself and your loved ones best. If you notice a change from the usual, start the conversation. It’s as simple as asking, ‘Are you okay?’ when we notice someone struggling.”
“One of the biggest myths is that suicide cannot be prevented. If these conversations happen, or if people reach out for help, we do see people heal, regain hope, and that’s what keeps us doing this work,” says Dhaliwal.
Island Health has a variety of mental health programs including crisis outreach teams, partnerships with police, same day walk-in services including counselling, hospital care, virtual care, community-based care hubs, primary care consultants, peer support and partner services with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).
Crisis Lines
If you are in a situation that involves immediate risk of harm to self or others, please call 911.
Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of British Columbia: 1-800-SUICIDE
- A confidential, 24-hour toll-free crisis line for people who are feeling suicidal, are concerned for someone who might be suicidal, or for emotional support.
Vancouver Island Crisis Line: 1-888-494-3888
- For emotional support and connection to local services 24-hours a day, every day of the year.
- Crisis Chat: vicrisis.ca available 6 – 10 p.m.
- Crisis Text: 250-800-3806 available 6 – 10 p.m.
Suicide Crisis Helpline: call or text 9-8-8
- A safe space to talk, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
KUU-US Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717
- For Indigenous people on Vancouver Island and across the province. Support is available 24-hours a day, every day of the year.
- Adult Crisis Line: 250-723-4050
- Youth Crisis Line: 250-723-2040
- Métis Crisis line: 1-833-638-4722
Services and other supports
- Learn about mental health services, including in times of crisis, visit Island Health's Mental Health and Substance Use Services
- Vancouver Island Crisis Society - Helping People Find Their Way
- For parents, caregivers and educators: Visit HealthyMindsBC to watch a suicide prevention and self-harm video series and get resources.
- For educators: Visit School-Based Programs