On average, 11 people die by suicide in Canada every day.
An organization in its infancy is hoping to curb that number.
Crisis Services Canada, which is a network of local and regional crisis and distress centres, launched the new, national Canada Suicide Prevention Service in the fall and it’s estimated almost 12,000 people have contacted them through calls, texts and online messages.
CEO of the CSPS, Roberta Fox, says over 60 per cent are using the new ways of contacting – the texts and chats.
A trained responder provides support and connects the person with local resources.
It’s for those who are depressed, who are considering suicide and also for loved ones who are concerned.
Fox believes this service can be expanded and customized.
The organization is talking with farm groups about customized programs, and is also working on programs for veterans and first responders.
Fox says every country with a national suicide strategy identifies helplines as an integral part of supporting at-risk individuals.
Canada doesn’t have a national strategy, unlike the rest of the G7 nations.

call: 1-833-456-4566  chat online at www.crisisservicescanada.ca   or text 45645