Preventing Suicide

Question from our live chat: What if you don't want to go to the ER due to previous stigma of mental health from hospital staff? "This unfortunately does happen from time to time. If you need the help but don't feel comfortable going and don't know where else to turn, ask someone you trust to go with you. This person can act as a buffer for you when you're feeling highly distressed and overwhelmed in the ER"

Thinking about being a peer supporter? Learn more on how to get started on our website. #peersupport #WSPD #suicideprevention #mentalhealthsupport

Question from the live chat: What's one good thing an organization can do to help their clients prevent suicide? "Helping shape the system to include the voice of those with lived experiences. It's important that these individuals are part of the solution. There needs to be opportunity for individuals to be involved at the table."

It's okay to ask if someone is thinking about self-harm or suicide. Research shows that this will not make things worse for that person. When you ask the tough questions, you're opening a door of support and healing.

If someone confides in you that they are thinking about self-harm or don't want to be here anymore, first take a deep breath. Then listen. Ask them if they've reached out for help. If they haven't, ask if you can help. Then listen. Quick go-to resources: Call 9-1-1 in crisis. Call Ottawa Distress Centre if they're looking to talk at 613-238-3311. All you need to focus on at this stage is actively listening and validating their experience.... #suicideprevention #WSPD #mentalhealthmatters

Bereaved Families of Ottawa provide facilitators who run about 120 peer support groups each year, attended by more than 2000 participants. They help and support people in our community who are dealing with grief that stems from many different types of losses. Click to find out if they're the support you may be looking for.... #WSPD #suicideprevention #mentalhealthmatters

Question from live chat: How is peer support different from a psychiatrist? "Psychiatrists are doctors first. They can help to unravel the awkwardness of talking about your experiences and help you to understand how your thoughts and behaviours may be leading to distress, and what you can do to heal." - John, mental health advocate "Peer support is mostly free, and they're there to talk and share advice based on their lived experience. We're there not to fix but to talk." - Tom, peer leader

There is no simple fix for suicide, but as with all problems, it becomes more manageable if you break it down into small parts. The concept of One Good Thing emphasizes the importance of taking small steps towards wellness. Examples of good things can include:... -getting enough sleep -getting outside for a walk -reaching out to a family member to catch up -asking for help even though you're scared See more

What can spark hope in dark times? "Supporting others from a non-judgmental stance and validating one's feelings." - Tom, Peer Leader and individual with lived experience, and mental health advocate.

"The Majority of people who have thoughts of suicide live through it." That's why we're having this conversation to share the hope and resilience in these stories of struggle and healing. #WSPD #suicideprevention #suicidepreventionottawa #mentalhealth

The current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for so many people. People’s coping strategies are being challenged. We know the importance of emphasizing stories of resilience during challenging times and as such, SPO has chosen the theme of One Good Thing to promote World Suicide Prevention Day.

For our launch of the #suicideprevention conversation series we are joined by Tom, person with lived experience and John, mental health advocate. What questions do you have when it comes to managing your mental health or reaching out for help?

And we're live! Join is for the conversation for World Suicide Prevention Day #suicideprevention #onegoodthing #WSPD