Suicide

Understanding Suicide

Approximately 4000 Canadians across all ages die by suicide each year. It is a major cause of preventable and premature death in Canada, accounting for 24% of all deaths among 15-24 year olds, and 16% among 25-44 year olds.

A person will most often take their own life if they have lost hope, feel helpless, or perceive death as the only way to end their pain. 90% of suicide victims have a diagnosable psychiatric illness, most commonly a mood disorder or psychotic disorder.

Learn more about Suicide on the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health website.
Contributing Sources: Canadian Mental Health Association, Statistics Canada, Mental Health First Aid Canada.

If you, or someone you know, is considering suicide, get help:

CRISIS?

If the situation is NOT immediately critical, you have options:

As applicable, contact the person’s psychiatrist, family doctor (who can prescribe medications and make referrals) or your company’s Employee and Family Assistance Program.

Contact the free Ontario Mental Health Helpline for information and referrals to counselling services and supports in your community:

Find a psychotherapist: 

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