My guest is John Thompson, Supervisor of Outreach and Education at Lethbridge Family Services. John has worked in the area of suicide prevention since 1989. In this episode, we talk about suicide prevention and why connectedness and resources are important.

September 10^th is World Suicide Prevention Day.

The theme for this year is Changing the Narrative. We are all responsible for suicide prevention. By reaching out to those you are concerned about – those who may be feeling disconnected. Asking them how things are going. Asking them if they are having thoughts of suicide. Connecting them with supports (suicide and crisis help lines, counsellors in your area). Listening to them. Showing them kindness and support; care and concern.

By talking about suicide and suicide prevention, we can change the narrative from stigma to the importance of opening up and reaching out.

Isolation increases the risk of suicide.

Social connections prevent suicides.

Learn more at www.iasp.info/wspd

Warning: in this episode, we talk about suicide.

If you are feeling triggered by these discussions or if you are thinking about suicide, take care of yourself.

If you need immediate help – call 911 or go to your local hospital’s ER.

Crisis Help Lines – Phone and Text:

Look-up the Crisis and Suicide Prevention Helplines in your city, area, country

Canada:

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention: call or text 9-8-8

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 686868

Alberta:

Mental Health Help Line: 1-877-303-2642

Southern Alberta:

Distress Line of Southwestern Alberta: (403) 327-7905