We need to talk about suicide more than one day a year

Today marks World Suicide Prevention Day. But when the world loses someone to suicide every 40 seconds, one day is not enough.

Prevention needs to be a priority today, tomorrow, and every day after that.

While the tragedy of suicide is not new, the COVID-19 pandemic and the movement to end systemic racism have intensified the need for change in our society. That is why today was chosen to mark the launch of our campaign to prevent suicide. 

This won’t be an easy conversation — and that is why we need to have it.

To those who have experienced suicidal thoughts, those who have lost loved ones, and those whose lives have been touched by suicide in any way, this campaign is for you. In other words, this campaign is for all of us.

For some, seeing the campaign may bring painful memories and emotions to the surface. Others may feel a sense of relief that it is receiving the attention it deserves. We’re working toward a future where more people have a tomorrow, where breakthroughs in mental health research provide hope, where patients and families can heal–where Mental Health is Health. This campaign will save lives.

Together, we can change the way the world understands and responds to people facing suicide. It's not a crime or a sign of weakness. The prejudice and discrimination that still surrounds mental illness has left many to suffer in silence–without care and support, without hope. Now is the time to speak up, so others feel safe to do the same when their lives depend on it.

Together, we can make every day World Suicide Prevention Day.

On behalf of the CAMH community,

Dr. Catherine Zahn

September 10th, 2020