Letters To The Editor

Burlington Post
Date Published: Friday, September 7, 2012

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Monday (Sept. 10) marks the 10th anniversary of World Suicide Prevention Day, a day when people are encouraged to discuss solutions to what is becoming an almost epidemic mental health issue among our young people.

According to Children’s Mental Health Ontario (CMHO), suicide is the second leading cause of death among 10-24 year olds in Canada.

Untreated mental illness — depression, in particular — is the leading risk factor for suicide.

For every suicide completion, there are thousands more young people having thoughts of suicide and attempting suicide, according to the CMHO.

One recent study found one in 10 students in Grades 7-12 reported they had seriously considered suicide, and about three per cent reported attempting suicide.

Suicide among Aboriginal youth is estimated to occur at rates five times higher than non-Aboriginal youth.

To mark World Suicide Prevention Day, the CMHO is joining with the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention to encourage communities across the province to get involved by showing their support for people affected by suicide.

While support can be expressed many ways, the gift of non-judgmental support is of utmost importance, according to support organizations.

Shame is one of the most challenging and prominent feelings around suicide. The stigma associated with suicide often prevents those suffering from getting help.

“We need to be open and we need to be educated,” said Gordon Floyd, president and CEO of CMHO. “Let’s remove the stigma associated with suicide and start talking about it.

One-in-five children and youth has a mental health issue severe enough to seriously affect their daily functioning at home, school or within the community.

Early intervention remains critical to young people having the best possible chance at succeeding in all aspects of their life.