Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. The World Health Organization notes that while the link between suicide and mental disorders (in particular, depression and alcohol use disorders) is well established in high-income countries, many suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis with a breakdown in the ability to deal with life stresses, such as financial problems, relationship break-up or chronic pain and illness.

In addition, experiencing conflict, disaster, violence, abuse, or loss and a sense of isolation are strongly associated with suicidal behavior. Suicide rates are also high amongst vulnerable groups who experience discrimination, such as refugees and migrants; indigenous peoples; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex (LGBTI) persons; and prisoners. By far the strongest risk factor for suicide is a previous suicide attempt.

The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) is conducting a 2021 World Suicide Prevention Day Event.  See details below:

In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) will be hosting a virtual ONLINE EVENT on Friday, September 10, 2021 at 2:00 PM EST, in English with French subtitles, on this year’s theme of “Creating Hope Through Action”.

The event will feature presentations by a group of panelists who will share their unique experiences of suicide-related behaviors and actions and what was and wasn’t supportive to them during this time.  Following the presentations, there will be a live Q & A. At the end of the session, participants will be encouraged to participate later that evening in a “Candle Vigil”, by placing a lit candle in their window to “Light a Flame of Hope” at 8:00 pm in their respective time zones.

To register for this event, please click here!

If you or someone you know are experiencing suicidal thoughts, seek help.  You can make an appointment at the UPEI Health & Wellness Centre, seek counseling services at Student Affairs, visit a Mental Health Walk-In Clinic, call 8-1-1 to speak to a registered nurse, call the PEI Helpline (1-800-218-2885), call 9-1-1 for emergencies or visit a number of online resources such as WellnessTogether.ca, Bridge the Gapp (pei.bridgethegapp.ca).