World suicide prevention day takes place this month

The Association of Psychology Newfoundland and Labrador (APNL) has released some facts regarding suicide in order to dispel myths, identify potential warning signs and provide local sources of assistance.

Sept. 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day.

The group notes that, according to Statistics Canada, there are about 55 to 60 deaths by suicide each year in Newfoundland and Labrador. For every completed suicide, there are 20-25 attempts.

The national suicide rate, based on 2009 data, is 11.5 per 100,000 people, while in this province the rate is 9.7 per 100,000 people.

Suicide rates are highest in middle-age white men. The suicide rate among First Nations individuals is twice the national average, and among Inuit the rate is six to 11 times higher. Suicide is is the second-leading cause of death in youth age 15-24, and for LGTBQ youth it is four to seven times higher than among their peers.

Warning signs include: appearing depressed or sad most of the time (untreated depression is the number one cause of suicide); talking or writing about death or suicide; withdrawing from family and friends; feeling strong anger or rage; feeling hopeless or trapped – like there is no way out of a situation; mood changes; drugs or alcohol abuse; exhibiting a change in personality; change in sleeping and/or eating habits; performing poorly at work or in school; giving away prized possessions; writing a will; or feeling excessive guilt or shame.

Immediate assistance is available through the Mental Health Crisis Line at 709-737-4668/1-888-737-4668 or through a local emergency department, or through Survivors of Suicide at 7264223.