23 24TH ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE • Isolation • Substance abuse. Protective Factors These factors help to decrease the risk of suicide. They include: • A resilient personality • Tolerance for frustration • Self control • Good social supports • A sense of humour • At least one good relationship. Symptoms of Suicidal Behaviour More suicides could be prevented if people were aware of the warning signs for suicidal behaviour. People considering suicide often show one or more of these signs of distress. They may: • Repeatedly express that they feel hopeless, helpless or desperate, although many will not talk about it at all; • Experience a change in sleep patterns; • Lose their appetite or have no energy; • Make negative comments about themselves; • Lose interest in things they used to enjoy, such as friends, hobbies or sports; • Give away prize possessions and take other actions to put their affairs in order; • Express their final wishes to someone or talk about their suicidal thoughts, although again, many will not talk about it at all; • Have a plan as to how they will commit suicide, even giving the time and place. Minimizing The Risk If you or someone close to you shows some of these warning signs for suicide, here are steps you can take to help: • Most communities in Canada have access to a Crisis/Distress line staffed by people with experience in helping those considering suicide. Their telephone numbers are usually prominently displayed in the first few pages of the telephone directory. Call them for advice and referrals. • Help remove the stigma associated with suicide by talking openly and frankly with someone about suicidal feelings. Show interest and support. Blaming someone for their negative feelings or telling them to “pull themselves together” doesn’t help and may further isolate the individual by discouraging them to share thoughts or look for help. • Get professional help from your family doctor or a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist.They can make a difference. If a friend or family member is suicidal, it can be helpful to offer to go with them. • Where possible, remove items that can be used for suicide, such as firearms, knives, over- the-counter medicines and drugs. Suicidal behaviour is often impulsive and restricting access to methods can substantially reduce the risk of a completed suicide. •Involve other friends and family members. The more support, the better for the person at risk and for you. • For more information and help, contact the mental health organizations listed in the Need More Info? section. Government of Canada’s Role The Government of Canada works to help Canadians maintain and improve their mental health, including preventing suicidal behaviour. Within its jurisdiction, the Government of Canada works to: • Develop and disseminate knowledge on mental health promotion and mental illness prevention; • Provide leadership and governance; • Develop social marketing campaigns; and • Conduct surveillance on health trends in population. In 2007, the federal government provided funding to establish and support The Mental Health Commission of Canada to lead the development of a national mental health strategy SUICIDE PREVENTION ■
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