It is estimated that each day in Canada, 10 people end their life and 250 make a suicide attempt.
Today is World Suicide Prevention Day.
Suicide loss survivor Lindsay Horsman says it’s an issue that people have a hard time talking about.
“My grandfather died by suicide around 19 years ago, and I have also had four attempts. I think it is really important to raise awareness about it and the stigma that goes behind it,” Horsman says.
Horsman says mental health is a huge component of our society, and it needs to be treated just like any other illness.
“I think if we can start to talk about mental health more and treat mental just like any other illness, then we will slowly be able to decrease our suicide rate.”
She believes many people stay silent because of the stigmas surrounding the issue, “I know myself, it took me a really long time before I was able to talk about it. The more you talk about it, the more you will be able to reach out your lifelines. You’ll be able to get through those storms.”
For more information, contact the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention.
