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World Suicide Prevention Day
September 10, 2022 was World Suicide Prevention Day. In Canada, we lose 11 people every day to suicide with many more people impacted by these losses. World Suicide Prevention Day is a chance for everyone to join together to promote an understanding about suicide and those impacted by a suicide attempt or loss. This years theme to Create Hope Through Action encourages understanding by reaching in and sharing experiences, and giving people confidence to take action. Suicide prevention is everyone's responsibility. For more information and resources, check out the Niagara Suicide Prevention Coalition.
Memorial Forest Vigil 2022
Every October, a Memorial Forest Vigil takes place on the Thursday during Mental Illness Awareness Week. The Memorial Forest seeks to lessen the stigma around mental illness and promote a greater understanding and compassion from the community as a whole. This year's event will be held on Thursday, October 6, 2022. You are welcome to attend the in-person event, or view the filmed event online on Friday, October 7, 2022.
Live Chat for High School Students
Live Chat is an online chatting service readily available for students to ask School Nurses any questions they have regarding their health and wellness. Live chat can be found on the School Health page and is available from Monday to Friday, 11:00am - 4:00pm.
myreality: Understanding Psychosis
On October 10, 2022, the mental health team with Niagara Region Public Health will launch an educational campaign entitled "myreality: Understanding Psychosis". This campaign seeks to educate youth, parents/caregivers, and professionals on psychosis and when/how to seek treatment. Psychosis can be treated, and many people make a good recovery, especially if they get help early. Keep an eye out for the campaign page and useful materials.
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Men
This resource highlights statistics on men's mental health and suicidal behaviours, factors that contribute to their increased risk of suicide and suicide deaths, subgroups who are at higher risk of suicide, and the potential and observed impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on men's mental health and suicide. The resource also highlights best and promising suicide prevention practices as well as resources for those looking for further support.
#StigmaEndsWithMe
It's time that we shift our language to use words that respect the dignity of all people who use substances, focus on the medical nature of substance use disorders, and promote well-being. We need to avoid using stigmatizing slang and common expressions that are harmful. For a helpful list of terms to avoid, alternate words and the rationale as to why, refer to this lexicon provided by the Government of Canada. Let's all make the commitment to use words that are compassionate and respectful.
