Every year on September 10th, people in over 50 countries connect to work together to prevent suicide. World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) is an opportunity to promote understanding about suicide and this year’s theme is Working Together to Prevent Suicide.

Medicine Hat has been tragically impacted by several recent deaths and this message marks the importance of communities coming together to recognize the impact of suicide and to strive to prevent it.

The last few months have been incredibly difficult for everyone, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. Connection to others is so important to all of us so let’s all make an effort to reach out to someone –a close family member, a friend, or even a stranger –check in to see how they are doing and listen supportively to what they have to say.

Remember that you don’t have to have all the answers. There are several professional resources available to you or someone you love who is struggling, including:

Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2642

Kids Help Phone Text CONNECT or call 1-800-668-6868

Distress Centre 403-266-HELP (4357)

Alberta Crisis Text Line – Text CONNECT to 741741

Health Link at 8-1-1

If you are in crisis, connect with your healthcare professional or call 9-1-1 if it is an emergency.

A silent vigil is planned for tonight at Riverside Veterans Memorial Park starting at 6:00 PM. Canadian Mental Health will be attendance with resources. Attendees may decorate a white paper bag to honour a loved one or leave a message for someone who is struggling. If you are unable to attend you can light a candle or leave a porch light on at home to show your support.

We are stronger together Medicine Hat! Let’s come together as a community with compassion and understanding to help each other today and everyday.

#WorldSuicidePreventionDay #YouMatter #StrongerTogether #WSPD2020MH