SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS Prince Edward Island Police Association 32nd Annual Crime Prevention Guide
1 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS MESSAGE FROM THE PEIPA PRESIDENT On behalf of the members of the Prince Edward Island Police Association, I am very pleased to introduce our 32nd Annual Crime Prevention Guide, which tackles the very difficult topic of Suicide Prevention Awareness. The intent of this publication is to offer information and resources in order to prevent anyone from taking their own life, by recognizing the signs and behaviors of children and adults that may be at risk. This publication is made possible by the generous contributions and support of many individuals, business owners and organizations throughout the province, and we are very grateful for their contributions that allow us to continue to publish our annual publications that reach PEI’s citizens and educate our communities on a variety of important crime prevention issues. Proceeds are also used to support PEIPA activities and further our Police Association’s community involvement and support, including a $1,000.00 donation to Kids Help Phone, which provides 24/7 support and counselling for children to get the help that they need. Please stay safe! Sincerely, Sgt. Ron MacLean President PEI Police Association www.peipolice.com EXECUTIVE MEMBERS Ron Kennedy Vice-President East Jason Blacquiere Vice-PresidentWest Allan Kelly Recording Secretary Tim Keizer Treasurer Dale Corish DirectorWest Mark Newcombe Director East
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 2 WELCOME TO LEONHARD’S At Leonhard’s Café and Restaurant we pride ourselves in serving only the best to our customers. It is our priority to source out quality, natural ingredients resulting in healthy and delicious meals. Why? Because this is a philosophy we hold true to our own hearts. We want to provide you, our guest, with food that we would serve our families at home. The natural way is the healthy way. 142 Great George Street Charlottetown, PE C1A 4K6 Tel: (902) 367-3621 leonhards.ca
3 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS TABLE OF CONTENTS 32nd Annual Crime Prevention Guide Message from the PEIPA President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Message from the Mayor of Charlottetown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Message from the Mayor of Summerside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Message from the Summerside Chief of Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Publisher’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 PEIPA Supports the Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Suicide Prevention Awareness Suicide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Suicide in Canada: Key Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Suicide in Canada – an overview of infographic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Teens talk, but is Canada listening? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 I’m Having Thoughts of Suicide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 I’m Concerned About Someone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Factors that increase the risk of suicide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Safe communication for suicide prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Talking to Children About a Suicide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 When a Parent Dies by Suicide ... What kids want to know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 What is intervention? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Safety plans to prevent suicide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 Need help but don’t know where to start? Call 211 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 www.peipolice.com WE SUPPORT KIDS HELP PHONE! Proceeds from our 32nd Annual Crime Prevention Guide project have allowed the PEIPA to make a $1,000 donation to KIDS HELP PHONE which provides 24/7 support and counselling to help children with any issue – big or small.
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5 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS On behalf of myself, Council, and staff, the City of Charlottetown wishes to congratulate the Prince Edward Island Police Association on their annual information guide. The information made available through the publication of this guide contributes to a broader sense of community safety, health, and well-being. One of the critical services that governments can provide is the safety of residents. A dedicated and community-focused association of individuals across the Island, such as the PEIPA, is necessary to build relationships, share information, and protect public safety. I want to thank everyone involved in the Prince Edward Island Police Association for what they do in the community and their role in making Prince Edward Island a safe and enjoyable place to live. Yours sincerely, Philip Brown Office of the Mayor City of Charlottetown Birthplace of Confederation Canada MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR OF CHARLOTTETOWN
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 6 SUMMERSIDE 888-2088 (902) 505 Granville #1c CHARLOTTETOWN 566-9000 (902) 386 UniverisityAvenue 201 Buchannan Drive STRATFORD 566-9000 (902) 14 Kinlock Drive securityfirst@eastlink.ca
7 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS On behalf of the City of Summerside I would like to congratulate the PEI Police Association on the publication of their 32nd Annual Crime Prevention Guide for Suicide Prevention Awareness. This guide is designed to inform the public and provide information on the resources available on PEI. Mental health care is offered in hospitals and in community health facilities across the province. There are also help lines with free, 24hour, bilingual, confidential, non-judgmental and supportive service and mental health walk-in clinics offered in all 3 counties to offer immediate support to help with anxiety, as well as life events causing stress and other mental health issues. The City of Summerside is proud to be a part of this publication and its efforts to inform our population about Suicide Prevention Awareness. We are grateful to all police officers whose dedication and commitment help ensure the safety of our residents and visitors to our community every day. You contribute greatly to our exceptional quality of life on PEI and for that we thank you. Sincerely, Mayor Basil L. Stewart City of Summerside MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR OF SUMMERSIDE
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 8 Delivering mental health programs and services to people living in Prince Edward Island. We’re here to help you and the communities you serve. Find more information and contacts at www.pei.cmha.ca Advantage Communications is a BPO service provider headquartered in PEI. We service major brands from across the globe and are committed to giving back to the community from which we employ. www.advantagecall.com
9 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS Congratulations to the Prince Edward Island Police Association on the publication of their 32nd Annual Crime Prevention Guide and thank you for the outstanding work you do in communities all across our province. The work of the PEIPAhas benefited many islanders and this year’s guide will continue with that tradition. The topic of this year’s guide is “Suicide Prevention.” Sadly, too many lives are lost to suicide each year in PEI and beyond. It is my sincerest hope that the work of the PEIPA and this year’s guide will help make a difference in someone’s life and prevent further tragedy. Mental health issues will impact most of us at some point in our lives and I truly encourage anyone and everyone who might be struggling to reach out for help. We should all make sure to take extra care of, and check in on, our families, friends and co-workers during what has been an extremely difficult last number of years. In closing, I again want to commend the PEIPA and its membership for continuing to have a positive impact in our communities. J. David Poirier Chief of Police Summerside Police Services MESSAGE FROM THE SUMMERSIDE CHIEF OF POLICE
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 10 902854-3265 “No More Leaks Over Your Head” Proudly Serving Prince & Queens County for over 20 Years. 5 Year Replacement Guarantee Residential & Commercial Installations • 5” Seamless Aluminum Eavestrough • Leaf guards • No More Rust and Leaks • Variety of Colors to Choose From • No Spikes Showing (installed with brackets inside eavestrough) • Soffit & Fascia Installation Call Kevin Arsenault today Cell: 439-1548 Wellington, PEI Dr. Wm. Neil McLure Psy.D., C.Psych. Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology 292 Water Street, (Third Floor) Summerside, Prince Edward Island Canada C1N 1B8 Phone: (902) 432-3910 Fax: (902) 432-3007 E-mail: mclure@pei.sympatico.ca Colin Younker Owner 670 University Avenue Charlottetown, PE C1E 1H6 (902) 566-1400 Fax: (902) 566-3868 colin@spatotalfitness.com www.spatotalfitness.com
11 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER On behalf of the Prince Edward Island Police Association, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank each and every advertiser and sponsor of our Annual Telephone Appeal, allowing this unique publication to be distributed throughout the community, to schools, libraries and public facilities and also available online at www.peipolice.com, making it easily accessible to everyone. The PEIPA publishes an Annual Crime Prevention Guide to educate the public on important community concerns. This 32nd Annual Crime Prevention Guide targets the subject of Suicide Prevention Awareness and is designed to help prevent suicides by recognizing the signs and behaviors of children and adults that may be at risk. This publication is made possible as a result of financial support from residents and business representatives throughout the province. With their generous support for the activities of the PEI Police Association, PEIPA is also able to give back to their communities through donations to various local charities and programs for youth, such as their recent $1,000 donation to KIDS HELP PHONE, which provides 24/7 support and counselling to help young people get the help they need. Last year, young people in PEI reached out to the Kids Help Phone over 13,000 times, which almost twice as many times than in 2019, as a result of COVID-19 challenges. We welcome comments or suggestions regarding these publications and always look forward to speaking with you each year during our Annual Telephone Appeal. Respectfully, Mark T. Fenety President Fenety Marketing Services “Providing quality, professional marketing and fundraising services on behalf of high-profile, non-profit organizations across Canada.” www.fenety.com 1-800-561-4422
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 12 MacKinnon Bros. Service Centre 419 Mount Edward Road Charlottetown, PE Licensed Mechanics Inspection Alignment Brake Service (902) 892-7781 (902) 892-2771 Proud Supporter of the PEI Police Association 7823 Route 11, Wellington, PE C0B 2E0 Owner: Robert Arsenault Cellular: 902-888-7067 Proud Supporter of PEI Police Association We Pack For Travel 902-367-0609 197 Minna Jane Drive Charlottetown, PE C1E 0C4 Orthodontic Office
13 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS PEIPA SUPPORTS THE COMMUNITY Cst. Liam Jay with the Summerside Dolphins Swim Club. Cst. Ron Kennedy making a financial donation to Eastern Express U13 AAA Boys Baseball Team. Constable AmyWalfield making a financial donation to the Greenfield Home and School Association. Vice Principal David Costello accepting on their behalf. Summerside City Counsellor Barb Ramsay accepting a donation from Sgt. Ron MacLean for LIFE HOUSE.
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 14 Enjoy prime locations, comfort & convenience. Variety of apartment styles. 902-394-6100 www.killamproperties.com Let us help you translate the latest fashion trends to your own personal style. Lady Slipper offers the brands that are trend setting and inspired by the fashion runways around the world. Along with an experienced team, you will be assisted in a friendly, relaxing atmosphere. Come in and enjoy the exceptional service! Our Passion is Your Fashion! 65 Queen Street, Charlottetown, PE, Canada 902 892 6525 Mon. to Fri.: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sat.: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sun.: CLOSED HEAD OFFICE 60 Belvedere Ave., Charlottetown, PE C1A 6B1 902.368-3737 Fax: 902.368-3738 FOLDING CARTON DIVISION Borden, PEI 902.437.3737 CORRUGATE DIVISION Dieppe, New Brunswick 506.389.3737
15 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS Twenty Nine Spacious and Modern Housekeeping Suites, 2km from Charlottetown Toll Free: 1-800-309-8259 | Local: 902-368-8259 fairislepei.com COMPLETE FOCUS EYE CARE • Dr. Joseph E. Hickey • Dr. Mark A. Burke • Dr. Claire Shaw • Dr. Carolyn J.M. Acorn Thank You for your support
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 16 Check out the seasonal store this summer, 8989 Cavendish Rd, Cavendish PEI C0A 1M0 North River Fire Department Mailing Address: P.O. Box 269, Cornwall, PE C0A 1H0 Physical Address: 644 Capital Dr. Tel: (902) 566-2550 Fax: (902) 628-6341 email: nrfdchief@bellaliant.com www.nrfd.ca West Prince Bookkeeping Certified Simply Accounting Consultants Personal and Corporate Tax Returns Pleased to support the PEIPA Elmsdale, PE 902-853-3470 West Prince Industry Center DNS GRASSCUTTING & LANDSCAPING INC. CELL 628-5107 DNSgrasscutting@hotmail.com
17 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS PEIPA SUPPORTS THE COMMUNITY Cst. Ron Kennedy with the Island Gymnastics Academy. Cst. Jessie McCabe with Tyson Kember, Assistant Captain of the Summerside Capitals [under 11] hockey team. Cst. Drew Beattie with staff from Notre Dame Place [special activity fund]. We are proud to support the communities we serve!
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 18 LYMAN PAYNTER Owner 902-439-4028 101 Old Summerside Road Kensington, PE C0B 1M0 Proud to Support our PEI Police Association Ron Lanigan HARDWOOD FLOORS 902.962.3417 536 Cambridge Road, Montague, PE C0A 1R0
19 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS PEIPA SUPPORTS THE COMMUNITY Cst Ron Kennedy (left) and Cst Tim Keizer (right) make a donation to the Inner City Life Skills Camp on behalf of the PEIPA. Kensington Police Chief Lewis Sutherland instructing local students on bicycle safety.
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 20 RECEIVERCOFFEE.COM (902) 367-3436 128 RICHMOND ST CHARLOTTETOWN, PE C1A 1H9 Island Pulp Producers RR#6 Cardigan PE C0A 1G0 (902) 838-4671 islandpulp@hotmail.com “Proud to support our PEI Police Association” King Truck Repair Phillip Lannigan (902) 894-4088 (902) 894-0533 - fax 404 Mount Edward Road Charlottetown PE C1E 2A1 kingtruckrepair@bellaliant.com Call Us NOW! Main Office: 902-892-9333 Secondary Office: 902-628-1456 After Hours Services: 902-629-5140 2 Macaleer Drive Charlottetown, PE C1E 2A1 macinnisexpress.ca MACINNIS EXPRESS LTD
21 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS Suicide Suicide is a troubling topic that most of us would rather not deal with, but suicide is a reality, and it is more common than we would like to think. - More than 3,500 Canadians kill themselves each year. - 1 in every 25 Canadians attempts suicide during his or her lifetime. - A 1994 United Nations study over a three-year period found Canada’s suicide rate for children and youth under 21 to be among the highest in the world. Many times suicidal actions are a desperate “cry for help” and many suicides can be prevented. By paying attention to warning signs and talking about the “unthinkable,” you may be able to prevent a death. Why do people take their own life? Most people who attempt suicide are ambivalent about taking their own life, however circumstances make them feel that life is unbearable. Suicide seems like the only way to deal with their problems because they have an extreme sense of hopelessness, helplessness and depression. Some of the factors that may lead a person to attempt suicide are: - feelings of isolation - having a serious physical illness - experiencing a major loss (death of a loved one, unemployment or divorce) - abuse of drugs or alcohol - experiencing major changes in life - prolonged depression with alterations in thinking patterns - post-partum depression - history of severe child abuse - living in a violent relationship What are the danger signs? Some people who kill themselves do not give any warning at all. Many, however, offer clues and communicate their plans to others. Individuals expressing suicidal intentions should always be taken seriously. Some of the signs to look out for are: - direct suicide threats such as “I want to die,” or indirect threats such as “You would be better off without me” - personality changes or withdrawn behaviour - hoarding medication - giving away prized possessions - lack of interest in future plans - isolation from friends and colleagues - depression Threats that may signal imminent danger often come from people who are isolated, who have attempted suicide before (and then were discovered only by accident), are impulsive, and have access to lethal means (weapons, drugs). (continued)
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 22 GAVAN GILL INC. GAVAN GILL PRES IDENT 566-5924 44 BELMONT ST. CHARLOTTETOWN, PE C1A 5H1 BELMONT@PEI.AIBN.COM BELMONT METAL WORKS 892 - 8469 BELMONT DISTRIBUTORS 566 - 1336 East Prince Funeral Home 245 Pope Road Summerside, PE C1N 5T4 Phone: (902) 436-0915 Fax: (902) 888-3112 Email: epfuneral@eastlink.ca
23 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS What can you do to help prevent a suicide? Suicide is a taboo subject yet talking about it openly is helpful. A person contemplating suicide needs the support of people who listen and care. If you are concerned that someone you know may be suicidal, take action: - find a place to talk where the person feels comfortable, they need to know that you respect their need for privacy - encourage the individual to express their feelings freely - the single most important thing you can do is to listen attentively without judgment - ask them whether they have considered suicide - bringing up the subject will not cause them to act upon it - talk to them about your concern and fears - they need to know that someone cares - ask whether there is anything you can do - talk about the resources that can give them support - family, friends, clergy, counselling or psychiatric treatment - let them know that you are there to support them, but also know your limits - you cannot do it alone What can you do if you are feeling suicidal? It may seem like there is no light at the end of the tunnel, and asking others for help and discussing your feelings can seem like a daunting task. If you reach out however, you will discover that there is help and that you are not alone. Many people have felt suicidal when facing difficult times and have survived, returning to normal lives. If you have these feelings you should: • talk to a trusted friend or family member about your feelings • call a crisis telephone support line • talk to your family physician; he or she can arrange for counselling and/or prescribe medication • get involved in a self-help group and talk to people who have “been there” • understand that you are not in the best shape to make major decisions reachoutnow.ca Suicide (continued) www.freepik.com/photos/Business photo created by jcomp Need Help Now? Call The Island Helpline 1-800-218-2885 Available 24-7
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 24 PEI PROFESSIONAL BOOKKEEPING SERVICES INC. 450 Main Street, PO Box 422 Alberton, PE C0B 1B0 Phone: (902) 231-3055 Fax: (902) 726-3457 nancyjpitre@gmail.com Nancy Pitre Business Owner • Summerside • Alberton • Montague • Morell PO Box 191, Hunter River, PE C0A 1N0 (902) 964-2658 Waugh’s Food Center 650 Water Street East, Summerside, PEI C1N 4J1 Proprietor: Blair Waugh Phone: 902-436-9511 • STI testing • Wart removal • Referrals • Driver medicals by appointment • I t ti • t l • f l • i i l i t t Thank you for your support
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32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 26 Your one-stop-shop public safety and law enforcement training destination. Over 35,000 training days were delivered at Slemon Park by the Atlantic Police Academy, Correctional Service of Canada, RCMP and several other organizations in 2019. We’re proud to continue our support of the PEI Police Association. info@slemonpark.com • slemonpark.com Dr. Guy Boswall 18 MacLeod Cres., Charlottetown, PE C1E 3K2 902-892-3200 Chinese & Canadian Food At Its Very Best Fully Licensed • Air Conditioned Banquet Room • Eat In or Take Out 836-5055 31 Broadway Street, Save Easy Mall, Kensington Community of Miscouche Council MacDougall Steel Erectors, Inc. 168 Industrial Drive Borden-Carleton, PE C0B 1X0 Tel: 1-902-855-2100 Fax: 1-902-855-2104 www.mseinc.ca E-mail: constanceinvestia@gmail.com Island Cut Stone 5135 Route 3 Vernon River PE C0A 2E0 Wholesale and retail supplier Natural and man made stone products Masonry/landscape supplies (902) 388-4175 Islandcutstone@gmail.com 116 Dufferin St., Alberton, PE C0B 1B0 (902) 856-0081 Follow us on 000 www.transportationwest.com Wellington, PE C0B 2E0 (902) 854-2951
27 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS Suicide in Canada – an overview of the infographic on page 25 An average of 10 people die by suicide each day in Canada. Of the approx. 4000 deaths by suicide each year, more than 90% were living with a mental health problem or illness. Suicide is the 9th leading cause of death in Canada. 1. Cancer 6. Diabetes 2. Heart disease 7. Alzheimer’s disease 3. Stroke 8. Influenza + pneumonia 4. Respiratory disease 9. Suicide 5. Unintentional injuries 10. Kidney disease Across the life span Children and youth (10 to 19 years) - Suicide 2nd leading cause of death - Males account for 41% of 10-14 year old suicides, increasing to 70% of 15-19 year olds - Self-harm hospitalizations 72% females Young adults (20 to 29 years) - Suicide 2nd leading cause of death - Males account for 75% of suicides - Self-harm hospitalizations 58% females Adults (30 to 44 years) - Suicide 3rd leading cause of death - Males account for 75% of suicides - Self-harm hospitalizations 56% females Adults (45 to 64 years) - Suicide 7th leading cause of death - Males account for 73% of suicides * Highest suicide rate across lifespan observed among males 45 to 59 years - Self-harm hospitalizations 56% females Seniors (65+ years) - Suicide 12th leading cause of death - Males account for 80% of suicides *Males aged 85+ experience the highest rate of suicides among seniors -Self-harm hospitalizations 52% females For every 1 suicide death there are: 5 self-inflicted injury hospitalizations 25-30 attempts 7-10 people profoundly affected by suicide loss www.canada.ca Need Help Now? Call The Island Helpline 1-800-218-2885 Available 24-7
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 28 Alan Preston 149 Great George Street Charlottetown, PE C1A 4K7 (902) 566-1499 1-800-693-2211 flowers@heartsandflowers.ca www.heartsandflowers.ca 112 Camp Rd., Oyster Bed, PE C1E 0L4 • 902.621.0144 baysidervcampground.com KENSINGTON CO-OPERATIVE ASSN PO Box 338, Kensington, PE C0B 1M0 Proud to Support PEI Police Association 176 Great George Street, Suite 300 Charlottetown, PE C1A 4K9 T: 902.368.8122 F: 902.628.4660 E: bd@maximuscanada.ca W: www.maximuscanada.ca DeltaWare Division GEOFFREY D. CONNOLLY*, QC Partner direct: 902.629.4515 residence: 902.368.9019 cell: 902.626.6244 gconnolly@stewartmckelvey.com We are pleased to help support this very important cause that affects so many 491 Main Street, Alberton 902-231-HAIR (4247)
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32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 30 7591 Cawnpore Lane, R.R. #2, Hunter River, PE C0A 1N0 P: 902-963-2698 F: 902-963-2932 e-mail: resortmunicipal@eastlink.ca www.resortmunicipalitypei.com Royal Canadian Legion Branch #5 340 Notre Dame Street Summerside, PE C1N 1S5 11 Esher St., Charlottetown, PE C1A 5G2 (902) 566-5776 NATIVE COUNCIL OF PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND Phone: (902) 892-5314 Fax: (902) 368-7464 Toll Free: 1-833-299-3422 www.ncpei.com 6 F.J. McAulay Court Charlottetown, PE C1A 9M7 1904 Monaghan Rd., Rte 213, Auburn, PE C0A 1T0 (902) 676-2632
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32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 32 CHARLOTTETOWN BOTTLE AND METALS LIMITED Dealers in copper, brass, radiators, batteries, steel, bottles, etc. BILL KINNEY Bus: (902) 566-9897 Cell: (902) 628-5631 Mailing Address: PO Box 1136, Cornwall PE C0A 1H0 1(800) 670-1012 P.O. Box 1328, Charlottetown, PEI, C1A 7N2 167 Minajane Drive Charlottetown, PE C1E 2L9 (902) 367-3041 www.habitatpei.ca
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32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 34 (902) 436-4877 34 Water Street, Summerside PE, C1N 4T8 AUTO BODY Phone # (902) 368-3827 PREFERRED INSURANCE REPAIR FACILITY “LIFETIME” GUARANTEE ON COLLISION REPAIRS www.gaudetsautobody.com Committing to the province of Prince Edward Island 161 St. Peters Road, Charlottetown, PE C1A 5P6 Ph: (902)-566-4212 Fax: (902)-566-2516 Contact us with any of your building automation and service needs COMPLETE NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION CONCRETE WORK & FOUNDATIONS RENOVATIONS - ADDITIONS FOR ALL YOUR CONSTRUCTION NEEDS RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL FREE ESTIMATES P.O. BOX 24023, STRATFORD, PE C1B 2V5 ROBERT McNALLY CELL: (902) 626-7614 FAX: (902) 367-9440 robertmcnally@eastlink.ca DR. D. G. STEWART OPTHALMOLOGIST 5 BRACKLEY POINT RD. CHARLOTTETOWN, PE C1A 6X8 (902) 892-3711 Ceretti’s Grocery & Hardware 23924 Trans Canada Hwy Borden, PE C0B 1X0 (902) 855-2060
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32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 36 J.E.B. Footwear (in association with Dr. K Bettles-Podiatrist) 554 North River Road Charlottetown, PEI (902) 892-7043 Happy Feet help make a happy you proudly supporting the PEI Police Association WARREN’S CARPENTRY INC 850 Read Drive Summerside, PE C1N 4J8 902.436.2236 Brian’s Auto Repair Brian Peters – Mechanic Phone: (902) 687-1388 31 Fortune River Road, Fortune Bridge, PE C0A 2B0 O’Brien Auto Recycling & Towing 2224 St. Marys Road Montague, PE C0A 1R0 Cell: (902) 969-3993 Email: darrinobrien@hotmail.com Open Monday - Friday 7am - 5pm North Rustico Lions’ Club Proudly serving our community for over 40 years. Bowling, Catering Chase the Ace, Saturdays Lounge: Open to the Public RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Charlottetown 235 Mason Road Orders: (902) 5694444 Office: (902) 5695970 Fax: (902) 5693224 Summerside 180 West Drive Orders: (902) 4363372 Office: (902) 8883823 Fax: (902) 4361728 Corrigan Home 22 Hemlock Court, Charlottetown, PE C1A 8E3 (902) 894-9686 “Care for Seniors”
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32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 38 Royal Canadian Legion Branch #22 1136 Ellerslie Rd., Ellerslie, PE C0B 1J0 85 Belvedere Avenue, Charlottetown, PE C1A 6B2
39 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 40 I’m HavingThoughts of Suicide There are many crisis centres available 24 hours a day to talk to you. Thoughts of suicide can sneak up on some people when they are not expecting it. For others, they can come and go and still for others, they always seem to be in the back or front of their mind. If you are experiencing suicide-related thoughts, you need to know that you’re not alone. By some estimates, as many as one in six people will think seriously about suicide at some point in their lives. WHAT YOU NEEDTO KNOW ABOUT SUICIDE RELATED THOUGHTS Suicide-related thoughts can mean different things for different people.They can be an early warning sign that a person is under a lot of stress and worry. They can be the result of intense feelings that a person doesn’t know how to name or how to cope with. For others, suicide related thoughts can be tied to a diagnosed mental illness such as a major depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, an anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, or substance use. Having these thoughts can be scary for some and for others, may be perceived to be a comfort as they believe that it may offer a choice or some control when things feel overwhelming and insurmountable. When thoughts of suicide arise, know that “your brain is not your friend”.We know that the intensity of the feelings and thoughts interfere with a person’s ability to problem solve. Living and dealing with these thoughts can be helped through treatment. It’s not easy and still, neither the thought nor the feelings will end a person’s life; it’s what you do with those thoughts and feelings. Treatment is not one size fits all. Different treatments work better for some people and at different times in their lives. If you find you are thinking of suicide and can’t think your way out of those thoughts, reach out to a friend, a family member, clergy member, crisis line, therapist or counsellor. They may help you see alternatives, even if just for the time being, to help you keep yourself safer. Will the thoughts go away? The intensity of thoughts of suicide will wax and wane and for some, they may experience these thoughts only once in their lifetime. There can be moments or even days or years of comfort, relief, contentment, even humour or joy, in the midst of experiencing thoughts and feelings that in the moment seem to “never go away”. An example might be that even if my life is falling apart, I can still smile when I eat my favourite food while petting my cat. I can go on a vacation or a day trip and get some relief from the intensity of the thoughts, for the time being. Reasons for living or engaging with possibilities of a future can help manage the current pain. If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, it’s hard to think of the big picture of a future.That’s because your brain has engaged in what is called “constricted thinking”. Break it down into smaller chunks. “Future” might mean until the next commercial, an hour, a day, a month, or a year. Some people find it helpful to have pictures of people they care about or who care about them; a card or letter from someone important to them; a poem, painting, or song, nearby to remind them they are cared about. Some people find distraction activities helpful, a crossword puzzle, word search, movie, online games, exercising or dancing are some ideas. Do not keep suicidal thoughts to yourself! By sharing your thoughts with someone who can hear your distress, you are no longer holding “the secret” alone. There is no shame to thoughts of suicide. The thoughts are giving you important information that all is not well. There are people who are willing and able to help.Talk to someone, a friend, therapist, clergy member, family member, or teacher and let them know you are wanting their help because the situation feels so horrible. If the first person you try to talk to doesn’t get it, try someone else. Not everyone has the skills and where some people are good at “doing” things, others are good at listening. Pick someone or a resource you think will be best at the moment. See page 87 for a list of resources where you can get help! suicideprevention.ca Need Help Now? Call The Island Helpline 1-800-218-2885 Available 24-7
41 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS I’m Concerned About Someone What you can do when you’re concerned. Never agree to keep thoughts of suicide a secret. Sometimes instinct tells us we have to break confidentiality. It’s better to have someone alive and mad at you than dead by suicide and you feeling that you missed an opportunity to help them keep safe. We recommend treating this subject and the people involved with respect, dignity and compassion and don’t keep it to yourself. Know who you can connect with as this work cannot be done alone. You may, as a helper, experience thoughts and feelings that are uncomfortable. It’s OKAY to reach out. Talking about suicide can provide tremendous relief and being a listener is the best intervention anyone can give. Talking about suicide will not cause suicide. When experiencing intense emotions, the person will not be able to problem solve. It is not your job to fix their problems. Listen, care, validate and be non-judgmental. Questions to Consider when you’re concerned: • Are you thinking of suicide? • Have you tried to end your life before? • Have you been feeling left out or alone? • Have you been feeling like you’re a burden? • Do you feel isolated and or disconnected? • Are you experiencing the feeling of being trapped? • Has someone close to you recently died by suicide? • How are you thinking of ending your life? • Do you have the means to do this (firearms, drugs, ropes)? • Have you been drinking or taken any drugs or medications? • How have you been sleeping? • Are you feeling more anxious than usual? •Who can we contact that you feel safe and/or comfortable with? For the helper: • Are you noticing or have you noticed any dramatic mood changes? • Changes in work behavior or school attendance/marks dropping? • Does the person seem to be out of touch with reality? What areWarning Signs? Suicide prevention depends heavily on our ability to recognize people who are in distress and may be at risk. The American Association of Suicidology developed a simple tool that we can all use to remember the warning signs of suicide. This tool is called “IS PATH WARM” and outlines the key points to remember. Suicide is preventable. Help is available. There is hope. Know Suicide Warning Signs. Ideation (Suicidal Thoughts) I Substance Abuse S Purposelessness P Anxiety A Trapped T Hopelessness/Helplessness H Withdrawl W Anger A Recklessness R Mood changes M (continued)
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 42 I’m Concerned About Someone (continued) How to be HelpfulWhen Someone is Having Suicide-RelatedThoughts • Take all threats or attempts seriously • Be aware and learn warning signs of suicide • Be direct and ask if the person is thinking of suicide. If the answer is yes, ask if the person has a plan and what the time line is. • Be non-judgmental and empathic • Do not minimize the feelings expressed by the person • Do not be sworn to secrecy …seek out the support of appropriate professionals • Ask if there is anything you can do • Draw on resources in the person’s network • Do not use clichés or try to debate with the person • In an acute crisis take the person to an emergency room or walk in clinic or call a mobile crisis service if one is available • Do not leave them alone until help is provided • Remove any obvious means e.g. firearms, drugs or sharp objects) from the immediate vicinity Source: International Association of Suicide Prevention Need Help Now? Call The Island Helpline 1-800-218-2885 Available 24-7
43 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS Factors that increase the risk of suicide No single cause can explain or predict suicide.Thoughts of suicide or suicide-related behaviours are a result of a combination of personal, social and cultural factors.The presence of these factors is different from person to person over their lifetime. Factors that may increase the risk of suicide include: • a prior suicide attempt • mental illness like depression • a sense of hopelessness or helplessness o this means that you believe your life or current situation won’t improve • misuse of alcohol or substances • chronic (long-term) physical pain or illness • trauma, for example: o violence o victimization, like bullying o childhood abuse or neglect o suicide by a family member or friend o events that affect multiple generations of your family Other factors that can increase the risk of suicide include: • significant loss, including: o personal (relationships) o social o cultural o financial (job loss) • major life changes or stressors, such as: o unemployment o homelessness o poor physical health or physical illness o the death of a loved one o harassment o discrimination • lack of access to or availability of mental health services • personal identity struggles (sexual, cultural) • lack of support from family, friends or your community • sense of isolation What helps to prevent suicide There are a number of things that can help to guard against suicide, including: • positive mental health and well-being • a sense of hope, purpose, belonging and meaning • social support • healthy self-esteem and confidence in yourself • asking for help if you’re having thoughts of suicide • a sense of belonging and connectedness with your: o family o friends o culture o community Other ways to help protect against risk of suicide include: • a strong identity (personal, sexual, cultural) • access to appropriate mental health services and support • good coping and problems-solving skills, and the ability to adapt to change and new situations • supportive environments where you’re accepted and valued (school, workplace, community) • positive relationships (peers, family, partner) If you’re struggling with your mental health or are worried about someone, you’re not alone. www.canada.ca
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 44 Safe communication for suicide prevention Using language that is helpful and respectful encourages an environment free of stigma, where we can talk more openly and safely about suicide and its prevention. Words matter in a world where silence or insensitivity can make matters worse. The more we are open and safe in our communication, the more likely it is that people can offer or seek help. Put people first Using people-first language avoids stigmatizing words or phrases and emphasizes people while respecting differences and experiences, rather than referring to their actions, conditions, or diagnoses. People-first language: • People with (…mental illness, depression, addiction, etc.) • Person who has died by suicide • Person thinking about suicide • People who have experienced a suicide attempt Problematic language: • These/those people, the mentally-ill, the depressed, addicts, etc. • Suicide victim, suicidal, contemplators, attempters Helpful tips: •Wherever possible, avoid the use of labels and acronyms when referring to or addressing people. • Use neutral and inclusive words and phrases to respect people and their experiences. • Carefully consider the choice of words around the issue of suicide and people. Depending on the audience (context, preference or culture) alternative language may be appropriate. The term survivor (e.g. survivors of suicide loss, suicide attempt survivor) may not resonate with everyone.The phrase ‘people impacted by suicide’ is generally considered more neutral and inclusive. Other examples of people-first language • People bereaved by suicide • Person impacted/affected by suicide • People with lived experience related to suicide Use safe language It is important that language about suicide is careful and factual. When we replace problematic language with neutral and respectful language, we help shift how society reacts to and understands suicide. We can make the conversation about suicide safer. Safe language: • Die by suicide • Died by suicide • Death by suicide • Suicide attempt • Attempted suicide • Populations with higher rates of suicide • Populations with potentially high risk for suicide • Factors that may increase people’s risk for suicide • Social and economic costs associated with suicide Problematic language: • Commit suicide • Committed suicide • Successful suicide • Completed suicide • Failed suicide • Failed attempt • Unsuccessful attempt • Incomplete suicide • High-risk people/ populations/groups • At-risk • Vulnerable or susceptible • Those people/populations/groups • Burden of suicide The term ‘committed’ is stigmatizing as it implies someone is criminal or immoral or has committed an offence. Suicide is not a crime. It was decriminalized in 1972. Recent amendments to the Criminal Code of Canada (section 241) refer to die by suicide rather than ‘committed suicide’. Suicide is a tragic outcome of many complex factors with lasting impacts; it is never about success or failure. It is not something to achieve or finish like a task or project. (continued)
45 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS Suicide attempt is not about success, failure or completion. Language about suicide should be factual and careful. People die by suicide or attempt to die by suicide. People may have lived through a suicide attempt or been affected by the suicide attempt of someone. Using safe language avoids words that describe suicide in a positive or negative way. Using neutral, factual and respectful words is far less stigmatizing. Some descriptive language can have negative connotations. The way we communicate about suicide needs to avoid further stigma and focus on prevention. Images matter too Safe images: • Images need to be consistent with safe language and communication for suicide prevention. • mages that convey a sense of belonging or community, a sense of hope, and healing and recovery are more consistent with safe communication. Images are most effective when they reinforce the message that no one is alone, that help is available and that everyone's life matters. Safe communication for suicide prevention means that words and images are well-planned, helpful and respectful. Problematic images: • Images that are negative, violent or graphic tend to be problematic.When images reinforce stereotypes or aspects of suicide, they can be stigmatizing, unhelpful and unsafe. Images of broken minds, fallen people or methods and locations of suicide (firearms, substances, bridges, etc.) are examples of images to avoid. Common dos and don'ts Safe messaging: • Communicates that suicide is a public health and safety issue. • Explains that suicide is a complex issue that can affect anyone and takes advantage of opportunities to inform people while focussing on prevention. • Addresses a balance of protective and risk factors associated with suicide. • Balances the use of statistics on suicide with enough context about the issue. Uses credible sources and accurate statistics about suicide. • Uses clear, neutral and people-first language. • Avoids detailed descriptions or comparisons of suicides (e.g. methods/means, locations, personal information). • Tailors messaging to audiences with content that is age, gender, culturally appropriate and effective. • Communicates about suicide with care and compassion by considering impacts on people. • Ensures communication about suicide is safe and effective by consulting relevant resources as needed (e.g. guidelines for suicide reporting). • Uses neutral, life-affirming and positive visuals to convey hope, available help and healing. • Provides helpful information and contact details for appropriate supports and services. Problematic messaging: • Communicates about suicide in a way that sensationalizes or stereotypes suicide and the people impacted. • Magnifies or minimizes the causes or responses to suicide. • Suggests suicide is inevitable or not preventable. • Links suicide only with certain populations. • Lists risk factors (e.g. resembling a checklist) without acknowledging or including broader factors, including factors that protect against suicide. • Focuses on statistics without adequate context or resources (data limitations and relevance). • Uses jargon, or technical, outdated or stigmatizing language. • Includes details or descriptions about suicide death or people who have died by suicide. • Uses the same message regardless of the characteristics and needs of the audiences. • Includes content that can be traumatizing or stigmatizing for people (that causes blame, shame, guilt and fear) or pose harm by unintentionally increasing risk of suicides. • Communicates about suicide without using safe messaging guidelines or seeking advice from mental health professionals, suicide prevention experts and people with lived experience. • Uses negative, violent or stereotypical images that perpetuate further stigma of suicide and people affected by suicide. • Communicates about suicide without offering helpful information. www.canada.ca Safe communication for suicide prevention (continued) Need Help Now? Call The Island Helpline 1-800-218-2885 Available 24-7
32ND ANNUAL CRIME PREVENTION GUIDE 46 Talking to Children About a Suicide Mental Health Commission of Canada releases a new resource for parents and caregivers It’s human nature to skirt difficult conversations, especially when they involve uncomfortable circumstances and topics. But sometimes we need to face these challenges head on. That’s certainly true for several of the communities participating in the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s (MHCC’s) Roots of Hope suicide prevention initiative. In one of these northern communities, “there was a tragic cluster of suicides,” said Nitika Rewari, the MHCC’s acting director of Prevention and Promotion initiatives. “For parents, grandparents, and caregivers, addressing something so painful can be paralyzing. So it wasn’t surprising when people started asking us to create a resource for such situations, one that could really speak to the need to support children in a caring, safe, age-appropriate way.” That said, she added, it’s natural for any caregiver of a child affected by suicide to feel overwhelmed and unsure about what to do. Where to begin “So we developed Talking to Children About a Suicide, a resource designed to walk parents, teachers, and others through these discussions, step by step. Since it’s not an easy path, we wanted to let caregivers know how to mentally prepare, what to expect (or not expect), and how to respond with language that is helpful, not harmful,” Rewari explained. For Michel Rodrigue, the MHCC’s new president and CEO, the new resource strikes a deeply personal chord. “I lost a dear family friend to suicide, and this tragic loss occurred when his children were very young. Back then, we simply didn’t have guidance on the importance of talking openly. I can see now that the best path to healing is creating the space for grief, acknowledging those feelings, and giving children permission to ask difficult questions,” he said. Program manager Julie McKercher, who has worked extensively in community-based crisis intervention, created the resource and had eight experts review and validate its approaches.As she points out, having accurate information is a key part of the process.“We aren’t born knowing how to support a child in grief, and we may be afraid that talking about suicide could plant ideas in a child’s head or create even more angst. Yet those are misnomers - they simply aren’t true.” (continued) www.freepik.com/photos/school-girl photo created by zinkevych
47 SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS www.freepik.com/photos/Family photo created by freepik Talking to Children About a Suicide (continued) Striking the right chord Talking to Children About a Suicide not only dispels common myths, it also walks caregivers through simple techniques to help alleviate some of the pressure they may feel during those hard talks. “Things like sitting hip to hip make so much sense, but’s it’s not something you automatically know how to do,” said Rodrigue, referring to the ‘sideways conversation’ technique that removes the pressure of eye contact to let you talk more naturally, either as you’re walking or engaging in a quiet activity side by side. “It can open up space that allows the awkwardness to move its way through.” The resource itself is deceptively simple.“The first thing you have to do is prepare yourself to be the support,” said McKercher.“And that requires you to deal with any personal feelings you may have, so you can set them aside and offer a non-judgmental, caring ear.” Grief looks different for each child, she added, and as kids grow, so does their comprehension of death. But regardless of a child’s reaction, gently reaffirming that they aren’t to blame for the suicide is one of the most important things a caregiver can do. A long conversation Children not only pick up on moods, they overhear conversations and exchange ideas with their peers. “So we need to equip kids with the right information for their age and stage of development, and we need to be guided by their questions,” said Rewari. “Dealing with suicide isn’t a one and done conversation.” A resource like this is important, said Rodrigue, because it highlights the shift in children’s understanding over time.A child who loses a loved one to suicide at a very young age, for example, may begin to act out as they grow older and have a greater understanding of the permanence of death. “Whether it’s anger, frustration, guilt,” added Rewari,“not sleeping, having trouble concentrating - or no visible signs at all - grief doesn’t abide by a chart, and it can’t be plotted on a graph.Yet, while no one can anticipate what shape it might take, we can give caregivers a road map for conversing with a child as it may unfold.” Rodrigue agrees.“A suicide isn’t something one gets over. It’s something one learns to live with. And if we can model empathy, non-judgment, and understanding, the children in our lives will learn, over time, to do the same. It’s a ripple effect that could spell transformational change around how we talk about and respond to suicides in our communities and families.” mentalhealthcommission.ca
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