BY: KRYSTAL GROVER
It is no surprise that mental health is becoming a growing concern within our society today - whether that be because of the rise of more people struggling to maintain their mental health or simply the stigmatic barriers around this once taboo topic breaking down. Additionally, it is no hidden truth that with COVID-19, lockdowns, the unknown future and social cut-offs, the mental health of individuals from all communities is more at peril than ever before.
September 10th, 2021 marks this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) and aims to tackle the saddening topic of suicide. On this day, organizations and individuals alike join together to educate their communities about suicide, management techniques, where to reach out for help, understanding vulnerable individuals and helping those impacted by a suicide attempt or loss. The theme of this year’s WSPD, as hosted by the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP), is “Creating Hope through Action” where they focus on promoting preventative measures and recognizing the impact of suicide in our communities. For more information on their campaign for this year, please visit https://suicideprevention.ca/WSPD?locale=en.
While talking about a topic like such, it is imperative to understand the intersectionality within those impacted. Though everyone is susceptible to difficulty with their mental health, people of colour, First Nations, marginalized communities, people who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community and other minority groups stand at a further disadvantage, as a result of systemic and systematic barriers and communal stigma.
For this year’s WSPD, the Advocate would like to encourage its readers to play their part in ensuring a mentally healthier community. Whether it be checking up on family and friends or even reaching out for personal help, the smallest action can be the difference between life and death. In the Downsview community, there are many organizations and outlets to which one can reach out for help. The Jane Finch Community & Family Centre, Generation Chosen, Success Beyond Limits and Kids Help Phone are just a few of the various types of help available.
If you, or someone you know, is at immediate risk of their own health, please contact 911. The Canada Suicide Prevention Service hotline is available to talk to you 24/7 at (833)-456-4566 as well as the Kids Help Phone hotline for our younger readers at 1-800-668-6868. Please know that you are not alone and that help is available.