World Suicide Prevention Day: How We Can Support Children and Youth
September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day.
Suicide is one of the leading public health challenges facing children and youth today. In Ontario, the impacts are felt deeply, not only by young people who struggle, but by their families, friends, schools, and communities. At Kinark, our clinicians have worked closely with kids and families who have experienced this. We understand how the impact of suicide can affect the home, relationships, and overall well-being, and we are dedicated to offering compassionate care, resources, and hope to help families move forward. Each life lost carries far-reaching emotional, social, and economic consequences. While suicide is a global concern, it is also a pressing issue close to home, highlighting the urgent need for prevention, support, and hope for Ontario’s young people.
Children and youth facing mental health challenges often struggle with feelings of stress, isolation, or hopelessness. In the most difficult moments, some may believe suicide is the only way to escape their pain in that moment. However, suicide can be preventable if children and youth have access to the right support, understanding, and resources.
Here’s how you can help
- Know the warning signs: withdrawing from friends and family, changes in mood or behaviour, talking about hopelessness, or expressing thoughts of suicide. Learn more on the Canadian Mental Heal Association website here.
- Start the conversation: showing compassion, listening without judgment, and letting a child or youth know they are not alone can make a difference.
- Share resources: encourage them to connect with safe, confidential supports.
Available resources
If a child or youth in your life needs immediate support, please contact:
Crisis Support
- Simcoe County Child and Youth Crisis Services at 1-844-417-1945
- Northumberland Youth Crisis Response Line at 1-800-551-0403 and
- COPE (York, Peterborough, and Durham) at 1-855-310-COPE (2673)
Kids Help Phone
Services are available 24/7
Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Text CONNECT to 686868
Online website chat: Visit Website.
Suicide Crisis Helpline
9-8-8 is Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline. Whether you need help right now, not sure if you need help, or are worried about someone else, you can call or text 9-8-8 and get immediate help from a responder.
For medical emergencies
Please contact 9-1-1 or go to an emergency department or local hospital.
Additional resources
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention has additional information and resources available to the community. Visit their website to learn more: https://suicideprevention.ca/
Mental Health Support
At Kinark, we offer a wide range of treatment services including individual, family, and group counselling, provided by an interdisciplinary team of clinicians to children and youth with complex needs and their families. Learn more about our programs here and call Central Intake at 1-888-454-6275 to get started.