Government releases new suicide prevention plan

Education, research, and awareness of the high suicide rate among indigenous youth are all part of the Government of Saskatchewan’s new suicide prevention plan.

The plan, known as Pillars for Life: The Saskatchewan Suicide Prevention Plan, aims to coordinate activities to promote life and reduce risk factors related to suicide in Saskatchewan. It aligns with recommendations found within Saskatchewan’s Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan.

“Mental health continues to be a high priority for our government, our health system and our communities,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Warren Kaeding said in a press release. “This plan will guide activities specific to suicide prevention based on Saskatchewan’s context. It was informed by careful consideration of approaches across the country and international best practice.”

Specific actions outlined in the plan include expanded use and monitoring of suicide protocols, along with enhancement of research, data, and surveillance for local suicide prevention.

According to the government, approximately 144 people die by suicide each year in Saskatchewan. Suicide is the leading cause of death for people age 10 to 49 in northern Saskatchewan.

“As psychiatrists, we have of course been very concerned by the high suicide rate in Saskatchewan,” Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Interim Head, Provincial Department of Psychiatry at the University of Saskatchewan Dr. Malin Clark said. “A comprehensive plan that includes not only delivery of enhanced mental health services but also addresses social factors that contribute to hopelessness and increased suicide risk is necessary as we move forward in efforts to change this statistic.”

In need of help? Residents can still use HealthLine 811 for free, confidential, mental health advice, education, and support.

Pillars for Life: The Saskatchewan Suicide Prevention Plan is available at www.saskatchewan.ca.