Saturday is World Suicide Prevention Day, and North Eastern Ontario Family and Children’s Services are urging us all to “Take Five to Save Lives”.
Counselling and therapy services program supervisor Karen Gurr says that means becoming acquainted with warning signs and risk factors and how to help yourself and others. Gurr adds that we should talk about suicide, thereby reducing the stigma.
“We need to talk about suicide in a safe way and by having those conversations, we are preventing suicide,” she states. “Just by us having this conversation, we are helping to save lives.”
Gurr says NEOFACS has a multitude of services for children, youth and families. Asking for help is not a sign of failure. She says if a child is showing signs of being suicidal, don’t be afraid to call the agency.
“No one should hesitate. If they feel that a child could be at risk of suicide or self harm in any way, to call us directly and we will assist. We will help in any wayt possible to ensure the safety of a child or youth.”
From www.take5tosavelives.org ,the five steps:
- Learn the warning signs, risk factors and protective factors of suicide. Learning them will better prepare you to take action and could help save a life.
- Know how to help yourself and others who may be struggling. By knowing exactly what to say and do, you’ll be ready to act and keep yourself, your friends and your family safe.
- Do raise awareness, advocate for change, volunteer and practice self-care. Learn ways you can bring the suicide prevention movement to your school, workplace or community.
- Talk about suicide, dispel myths and reduce stigma. Learn how talking about suicide safely and responsibly can reduce negative stigma and lead to increased help-seeking.
- Share Take 5 to Save Lives with others. Help spread the word. Pledge to share the campaign with at least five people.