On Sept. 10, people from over 50 countries will join with the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in recognizing World Suicide Prevention Day.
Since 2003, WSPD has publically brought the need for suicide awareness and a greater commitment to suicide prevention to the world stage.
According to the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention, it is estimated that each day in Canada, 11 people will end their life and 210 will attempt to.
Suicide occurs across all age, economic, social and ethnic boundaries. The pain that leads individuals to take their lives is unimaginable.
Their deaths leave family and friends bereft and their communities impacted,
On Sept. 10, people around the globe will light a candle by a window.
The Suicide Awareness Council of Wellington Dufferin (SACWD) invites people in local communities to light a candle at 8pm to illuminate the need for suicide awareness and prevention.
Candle also recognize those who have been bereaved by suicide and for the survivors of suicide.
Council coordinator Heather Glenister, says “the lighting of a candle symbolizes hope. When we come together as a caring, compassionate and informed community, we have a greater ability to save lives and give a bigger voice to promoting mental health, resilience and wellness. We can also better support those who have been impacted by suicide.”
Lighting a candle on Sept. 10 brings communities and people together to build awareness that creates change.
Tea-light candles are available from the council at any Canadian Mental Health Association office in Wellington and Dufferin Counties.
For more information on suicide and mental health, visit www.suicideprevention.ca and www.mentalhealthcommission.ca
