Self-harm
It can be scary and distressing when you hear words and phrases that hint at suicide. You may worry that using the word “suicide” could put the idea in their head, but research shows the opposite is true. Asking someone if they are feeling like hurting themselves can bring them relief, because someone is noticing how badly they are feeling.
You can ask:
- “Are you thinking about suicide?"
- “Have you had thoughts about harming yourself?"
If you or someone in your life is having thoughts of harming themselves, or others, they need professional help. You can call or text 9-8-8 anytime day or night. If they have a plan, this is a medical emergency. Take them to your nearest Emergency Department or call 911.
For more support
- 9-8-8 provides a safe space to talk, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. When you call or text 9-8-8, you will reach a responder at one of nearly 40 local, provincial and territorial, and national crisis lines, who co-deliver the service.
- The VAC Assistance Service provides free, short-term psychological support with a mental health professional. For immediate support, call 1-800-268-7708 to speak to a mental health professional.
- The Family Information Line is a confidential, personal, bilingual and free service offering information, support, referrals, reassurance and crisis management to the military community. Call 1-800-866-4546 or connect online.
- The Hope for Wellness Helpline is available to all Indigenous people across Canada. Experienced and culturally competent counsellors are reachable by telephone and online ‘chat’ 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Both telephone and online chat services are available in English and French. Telephone support is also available upon request in Cree, Ojibway (Anishinaabemowin), and Inuktitut. Call 1-855-242-3310 (toll-free) or connect online.