SASKATCHEWAN FEDERATION OF POLICE OFFICERS SFPO’s $5,000 donation to Kids Help Phone 1st Annual Copper Cup Pond Hockey Tournament Saskatchewan’s first and only Bicycle Skills Park Suicide Prevention Awareness Help! 2013
SASKATCHEWAN FEDERATION OF POLICE OFFICERS Estevan Police Service’s First Female Officer Retires Motorcycle Ride For Dad 2012 Moose Jaw Police Service Charity Work Children’s Internet Safety SASKATCHEWAN FEDERATION OF POLICE OFFICERS Police & Peace Officer Memorial River Runners 2010 Sask Cops Take part in “Movember” SFPO Memorial & )"'$ % "" !(" ( !%& ' ) ! Sask Cops take part in“Movember” " ! "$ % &" #'& ! ! &" ' ) ! SASKATCHEWAN FEDERATION OF POLICE OFFICERS ! ' ) $ ( ! % "! & $ % ! ! Fenety Marketing Fenety Marketing is proud to assist the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers with the publishing of their Annual Crime Prevention Guide. Providing quality, professional marketing and fundraising services on behalf of high-profile, non-profit organizations. www.fenety.com
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 1 PREM I ER OF SASKATCHEWAN LEGISLATIVE BUILDING REGINA, CANADA S4S 0B3 2013 Crime Prevention Guide On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, I am pleased to support the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers’ (SFPO) Annual Crime Prevention Guide. This annual guide serves to educate the public of the importance of crime prevention and law enforcement. This year’s guide tackles suicide prevention awareness. Our government is committed to working with our partners to help prevent suicide in Saskatchewan. Commendably, all proceeds raised from this publication go directly to support improvements in law enforcement in our province, pay for annual police memorials, and support community organizations including Kids Help Phone. Since being founded in 1962, the SPFO has served as a collective voice for Saskatchewan municipal police agencies and civilian personnel. The government of Saskatchewan sincerely appreciates the ongoing efforts that these members put forth to enhance the safety of the communities in our province. I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the SFPO for your valuable work. Brad Wall Premier
2 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers A proud supporter of the SASKATCHEWAN FEDERATION OF POLICE OFFICERS (SFPO) Mainstreet Equity Corp. TheTop 10 Gainer on theTSX in 2011 (MEQ:TSX) Western Canada’s leader in Renovated, Modern Apartment Suites Transforming Buildings. Transforming Neighborhoods. www.mainst.biz
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 3 Suicide Prevention..................................................................................................................25 Suicide Rates: An Overview...................................................................................................31 Suicides & Suicide Rate, by sex & age group........................................................................39 Risk Factors & Warning Signs ...............................................................................................41 Teen Suicide ...........................................................................................................................45 Teen Depression: A Guide for Parents....................................................................................49 Suicide in Children & Youth: A Guide for Parents ................................................................63 Suicide Among Seniors ..........................................................................................................73 Suicide Among Canada’s Aboriginal Peoples ........................................................................75 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: All Ages ..............................................................................77 Canada’s LGBTQ Youth.........................................................................................................93 Self-Harm Behaviours (Children and Youth) .........................................................................95 Supporting Survivors Bereaved by Suicide............................................................................107 Mental Health Services in Saskatchewan...............................................................................129 RESOURCES........................................................................................................................144 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX.....................................................................................................141 5TH Annual Crime Prevention Guide TABLE OF CONTENTS SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS Message From the Premier ........................1 Message From the SFPO President ...........5 Publisher’s Page ........................................7 SFPO’s $5,000 donation to Kids Help Phone........................................9 About Kids Help Phone.............................11 1st Annual Copper Cup Pond Hockey Tournament ..................................15 Moose Jaw Police vs Special Olympics ....17 SK’s first and only Bicycle Skills Park .....19 Prince Albert’s Police Service Shop with a Cop Program..........................21 Regina Police Association News ...............23
4 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers REGULATING THE FUTURE TO PRESERVE THE PAST IGR licenses and Regulates on-reserve charitable gaming: Please contact IGR at: Indigenous Gaming Regulation 400-203 Packham Ave., Saskatoon, SK S7N 4K5 Tel: 306-477-5700 Fax: 306-477-5704 Toll Free: 1-877-477-4114 www.igr.ca - SIGA TABLE GAMES - TEXAS HOLD ‘EM - MONTE CARLO - BINGOS - BREAKOPENS - RAFFLES Accountability Teamwork Respect Integrity Professionalism
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 5 Dear Supporter, On behalf of the Members of the Saskatchewan Federation of Police of Police Officers (SFPO), I wish to thank the general public and businesses in Saskatchewan for their support of our organization through their donations and the purchase of advertising making this publication possible. We appreciate your support and contributions to our Annual Crime Prevention Guide. This edition focuses on Suicide Prevention Awareness. Suicide is a very serious issue that affects all communities. Please take the time to review the information and resources within to gain understanding of suicide, warning signs, how it affects our communities, and the grieving process for those who’ve lost loved ones. Suicide can be prevented with education. Thank you! Evan Bray President Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Among the objectives of our Federation are the following: • toraise the standards of police workand to foster a true sense of obligation to the public; • to maintain a just, impartial and efficient public police force; • to stimulate interest in the vital importance of police work in the everyday life of the community; • to lobby the government for progressive changes in Criminal Justice Legislation such as the Youth Justice Act and Early Parole.
6 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Teamsters Canada Rail Conference Thunder Creek Division 510 Play Responsibly www.GoldEagleCasino.ca North Battleford, SK 1.877.446.3833 &XUWLV 1HLV]QHU 93 2SHUDWLRQV :H\EXUQ 6DVNDWFKHZDQ QHLV]QHU UHDUGHQ#VDVNWHO QHW
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 7 From the Publisher “Providing quality, professional marketing and fundraising services on behalf of high-profile, non-profit organizations.” www.fenety.com The Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers publishes an Annual Crime Prevention Guide to educate the public on serious community concerns. This 5th Annual Crime Prevention Guide focuses on the delicate subject of Suicide Prevention Awareness in order to shed some light on this very dark issue. This Community Guide is made possible as a result of financial contributions from residents and business representatives throughout Saskatchewan whose generous support makes it possible for the members of the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers to give back to their communities through donations to various local charities and youth-oriented programs. On behalf of the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank each and every contributor of our 2013 Telephone Appeal. This unique publication is distributed free-of-charge each year to schools, libraries and public facilities and it is also available online at the SFPO’s website at www.saskpolice.com, making it easily accessible to everyone. Your comments or suggestions regarding these publications are always welcome and we look forward to speaking with you again this year during our Annual Telephone Appeal. Respectfully, Mark T. Fenety President Fenety Marketing Services (Atl.) Ltd.
8 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers International Union of Operating Engineers 2175 Airport Drive Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7L 7E1 Telephone: (306) 665-7718 Facsimile: (306) 665-0998
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 9 There for kids, day and night To reach a Kids Help Phone professional counsellor, kids, teens and young adults from any community in Canada can call or go online 24 hours a day, 365 day a year. Anything goes From trouble with homework to dealing with loss and grief to thoughts of suicide, kids can talk to Kids Help Phone about anything. Professional counsellors provide anonymous, confidential and non-judgemental support. Support right at home We are the only organization that has access to a database of over 37,000 local resources. That means that no matter where a kid is calling from, our professional counsellors can connect them to a service right in their community, whether they need a place to stay for the night, a way-home or a sexual health clinic. Kids Help Phone's Mission Our mission is to improve the well-being of children and youth in Canada by providing them anonymous and confidential professional counselling, referrals and information in English and French, through technologically-based communications media. Even though everyone needs help sometimes, stigma around mental and emotional health struggle remains strong. The threat of being judged or labeled can leave both adults and kids reluctant to seek help. Proceeds from our Annual Community Guide project have allowed the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers to make a $5,000 donation to Kids Help Phone At the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers’ Annual General Meeting on May 14/14, Evan Bray (SFPO President) presented Trish Taylor (Manager of Community Fundraising & Events for KIDS HELP PHONE) with a cheque for $5,000 from proceeds of their Annual Crime Prevention Guide on Suicide Prevention Awareness. Kids talk to Kids Help Phone when kids don't know who to talk to.
10 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers EMW Industrial Ltd. 413-220 3rd Avenue S Saskatoon, SK S7K 1M1 (306) 955-2096 2518 Faithfull Ave, Unit 106 Saskatoon, SK S7K 6R3 Ph: (306) 649-FUEL (3835)
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 11 100% of young people will experience sadness, frustration, grief, and stress. How they are supported is what matters the most. Kids Help Phone is Canada’s leading youth professional counselling service, helping kids, teens and young adults to cope with overwhelming emotions and to build on their own personal skills and abilities. Any young person with access to a phone or computer can reach Kids Help Phone any hour of the day or night, from any community in Canada. From trouble with homework to dealing with loss and grief, from questions about sexual identity to thoughts of suicide, young people can turn to Kids Help Phone. No matter the question, no matter the problem. 24/7/365. Available in English and French, Kids Help Phone is the go-to resource for the young people of Canada from ages five to 20 when they need help, or when they need trustworthy information on issues that are difficult to discuss with anyone else. This generation is dealing with so much more, so much earlier. Parents and teachers may not always have the answer, but they can take comfort in knowing that Kids Help Phone does. Kids Help Phone is a community-based national organization that relies almost exclusively on the support of corporations, foundations and individuals to ensure that every child that takes the courageous step of reaching out for help receives the meaningful support they seek and deserve. Our services Young people know they can trust Kids Help Phone. Counsellors don’t use call display, and don’t trace calls or IP addresses, and don’t collect names or other personal information. Kids Help Phone diversifies its content to remain age-appropriate for all of its users. The kids’ website is segmented by age through two separate portals – for kids ages eight to 11, and teens ages 12 to 20 – to allow for the cognitive, emotional and literacy differences of each group Kids Help Phone offers eight different approaches to professional counselling, ensuring each young person is offered the most effective form of consultation for his or her unique needs. Kids Help Phone Facts and Stats ►
12 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Crisis Line (306) 933-6200 • Suicide Intervention • Marriage & Family Problems • Drug and Alcohol Abuse • Individual Crisis Counselling • Child Abuse and Neglect • Mental Health Crisis Intervention • Problem Gambling • Seniors in Distress Telephone Counselling (24hrs/7days/365) 103-506 25th Street East Saskatoon, SK S7K 4A7 www.SaskatoonCrisis.ca Awareness Saves Lives! We need to recognize the signs and behaviors of children and adults that may be at risk of suicide, and help them get treatment. We support the efforts of the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers in bringing awareness to this important social issue. Yorkton City Council Bob Maloney, Mayor Proud to support the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 13 1-800-668-6868 Immediate day or night counselling by phone; Ask Us OnlineCounselling through online posts; Info BoothAccess to thoroughly researched and clinically endorsed content; Navigating in a virtual support community created by kids viewing other kids’ online posts and the counsellors’ responses; Interactive games and tools to promote self-care and resiliency, on the kids’ website; Your Space where kids can share their innermost thoughts, secrets and feelings in a safe, non-judgmental environment; Community referral databaseof more than 37,000 local agencies in 2,750+ communities across Canada to help connect kids with resources within their own community; IM/Chat professional counsellingpilot (Fall 2011). In 2010, the top three issues most important to kids were: Mental Health concerns: close to 30% of the issues kids contacted our professional counsellors about related to mental or emotional health struggles. This is a notable increase from 19% recorded in 2004 (first available issue-related statistics); Peer concerns; and Family concerns. Being there for young people’s unique counselling needs In 2010, Kids Help Phone estimates it had 225,622 counselling contacts with youth throughout Canada. The counsellors assisted kids more than 4,300 times a week either through phone or web consultation. In 2010, there were more than 1 million indirect counselling contacts which came through our kids' website, including young people reading stories which resonate with their own in the Ask Us Online section, and accessing trusted information from the Info Booth, which features over 50 topics in kidfriendly language. These are both powerful ways to find comfort in knowing you are not alone, and gaining perspective when you're not ready to talk. The thoroughly researched, clinically endorsed content in the Info Booth section of the kids’ website offers age-appropriate online information on more than 50 topics counsellors have identified as important to children and youth in their everyday lives. Kids Help Phone professional counsellors can access the Kids Help Phone Community Referral database, a national catalogue of more than 37,000 local services to connect kids with someone on the ground – child welfare agencies, shelters, health clinics, counselling centres, police and more – in their own community. The largest of its kind in Canada, the database is continuously updated and enhanced to make sure that counsellors can quickly find whatever resources kids need. Our counsellors Kids Help Phone employs skilled counselling professionals, not volunteers. Each of the full- and part-time counsellors have a clinical or academic background and a degree or diploma in child and youth counselling, or in an applied social science such as social work or psychology. Counsellors have a minimum of three to five years of experience and many have expertise in a specific area, such as eating disorders, gangs, addictions or sexual abuse, allowing them to contribute to the knowledge base of the organization and their peers. ■ Kids Help Phone
14 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 1309 La Ronge Ave, Box 1829, La Ronge, SK S0J 1L0 (306) 425-4703 Fax: (306) 425-6270 NCQ offers training leading to employment opportunities in the resource based sector for Aboriginal residents in the Prince Albert and north area of Saskatchewan. 1736 Quebec Ave, Unit 42 Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V9 Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 15 In February 2014, the Moose Jaw Police Association (MJPA) hosted the 1st Annual Copper Cup Pond Hockey Tournament. The tournament was held in Moose Jaw’s beautiful Wakamow Valley and it had a definite “winter festival” feel. The Copper Cup was very successful and proved to be an excellent way for us to interact with the community and promote vitality, all while raising money for various local charities. The tournament was well attended and supported by our community. Overall, we managed to raise over $5,000 through team participation and prize raffles. All of the money raised will be donated back to the community of Moose Jaw through various local charities and community projects. 1st Annual Copper Cup Pond Hockey Tournament
16 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Association of Saskatchewan Urban Parks and Conservation Agencies OFFSET YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT CarbonCreditCanada.ca The Association of Saskatchewan Urban Parks & Conservation Agencies will plant trees to reduce your carbon footprint. Use the convenient online calculator. Tax receipts issued. Go to 579 28th Street West Prince Albert, SK S6V 4T1 Phone: 306-922-0600 Fax: 306-763-8915 Email: [email protected]
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 17 Moose Jaw Police Association vs Special Olympics In April 2014, the Moose Jaw Police Association enjoyed a friendly game of floor hockey with the Special Olympics. This is an annual event that both teams very much look forward to. This year’s game was very well attended and provided great entertainment. As in other years, the police team was easily outplayed and lost by a large score.
18 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Construction & General Workers’ Local Union No. 180 1866 Mcara Street Regina, SK S4N 6C4 (306) 525-2336 Email: [email protected] Prince Albert Open Monday - Friday • Appointments for Saturday CUSTOM VALANCE • DRAPES • SHOWCASE DEALER HUNTER DOUGLAS Call today for FREE in Home Consultation or Viewing of Studio Custom Valance, Drapes & Blinds, Hand Made by the Best Seamstress in the Country Style & Design Selected by A Consultant in the Business for Over 20 Years Showcase Hunter Douglas Dealer (full line), also Carry Several Other Dealers Professional Installers
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 19 Saskatchewan’s first and only Bicycle Skills Park In June of 2013, we began developing Saskatchewan’s first and only Bicycle Skills Park. We recognized this as a unique and exciting way to leave a positive legacy in our community and promote vitality within our youth. After a year of planning and organizing, we are almost ready to begin construction. The Moose Jaw Police Association funded the design of the park, organized the project, supplied the necessary volunteer effort and engaged in fundraising to complete the project. In April 2014, we held a public open house to unveil the design for the park. We had a great turnout from the community to view the design and provide feedback. In May 2014, we began initial construction and our first major construction phase will begin in July. Overall, the project has received overwhelming public support and positive feedback. To date, we have also received support and donations from Co-Op, Evans Excavating, The Associated Canadian Travellers, the RM of Moose Jaw, the City of Moose Jaw, Folgizan Insurance, North West Community Association, and the Moose Jaw Pavers. We are very pleased to say that this will be one of the best bike parks in Canada and a valuable asset to our community!
20 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers CUSTOM VALANCE • DRAPES • SHOWCASE DEALER HUNTER DOUGLAS Call today for FREE in Home Consultation or Viewing of Studio - Weekly light housekeeping and linen and towel service - Heated underground parking - Full Kitchens in every suite - Transportation service 915 SASKATCHEWAN CRESENT WEST (SASKATOON) Overlooks the River & Gabriel Dumont Park For more information CALL - (306) 664-1250 or check our website: www.riversideterrace.ca Professionally managed by Chosen as Saskatoon’s Retirement Home for the City of Saskatoon 2013 1 bedroom and den suites available 1-866-982-9239 P.O. Box # 938, 103-2nd Ave. South Unity, SK S0K 4L0 Toll Free - 1-866-982-9233 1-306-228-3333 Fax 1-306-228-7272 [email protected] www.prairiemooninnandsuites.com “64 brand new air conditioned rooms, wired & wireless internet, hot & cold continential breakfast, microwaves & mini fridges in every room.” JUNCTION OF HWY #21 & 1ST AVE EAST Box 411 - Unity, SK S0K 4L0 PH: 228-2603 ■FAX: 228-3448 - 50 Modern Air Conditioned Rooms - Licensed Restaurant/Conference Rooms - Free Local Calls/Full Cable - Mini Room Fridges - Convenient Parking with Plug-ins - Wireless Highspeed Internet Kinsmen Club of Saskatoon Serving the community’s greatest need www.kcos.ca
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 21 Prince Albert’s Police Service Shop with a Cop Program Shop with a Cop is a program that the Prince Albert Police Service has been practicing for four years. This idea was established by the St Paul Police Department in Minnesota, USA in 2000. Sgt Gwen Kennedy, a retired member from the Prince Albert Police Service implemented the program here in Prince Albert four years ago. The purpose of the event is to foster positive relationships between youth and officers. Young kids, K - 6th grade are selected each year during the end-of-the-year holiday season to shop at one of the local area stores to purchase gifts for members of their immediate family. Each child is given a $100 gift card. Approximately 1-2 children are assigned to each police officer, who then escorts them around the store and assists in selecting appropriate gifts for each family member. The children are told, and understand, that the money is not for personal use and must only be spent on members of their family. After shopping, the children will eat lunch and continue to get to know the police officers. We have an average of 25 students partake from our local community schools. Funds for the event have been donated from Prince Albert Crime Stoppers and Prince Albert Victim Services. Prince Albert Northern Buslines provide the bus and driver at no cost. This is an extremely successful event and is an excellent opportunity for police to interact with our youth on a positive note.
22 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Conseil des écoles fransaskoises The ONLY French First-Language Education in Saskatchewan! cefsk.ca Au Conseil des écoles fransaskoises, la réussite, l’épanouissement et le bienêtre de nos élèves nous tiennent à coeur. C’est pourquoi nous encourageons les jeunes en détresse à utiliser en toute confiance le service d’aide en français : École de langue première aujourd’hui... francophone bilingue pour la vie! Jeunesse, J’écoute! 1 800 668 6868 JeunesseJecoute.ca Un service gratuit, anonyme, confidentiel, sans jugement, 24/7 www.yardsmart.ca 8 Nelson PL., Emerald Park, SK S4L 1C2 306 781•4700 601 Neufeld Street Warman, SK S0K 4S0 Phone: (306) 242-7276 Fax: (306) 934-2743 Email: [email protected] Web: integrityplumbing.ca #1 - 3401 8th St East, 614 Circle Dr. East Ph: 956-3278 (8th) and 249-5823 (circle) Please ask for your frequency card where every seventh oil change is free. Behind the big yellow doors. Draw twice a year for a trip for Loyal Customers completing frequency cards. Look for us on Facebook and Twitter
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 23 Regina Police Service The Regina PoliceAssociation (RPA) represents both police officers and civilian members of the Regina Police Service and is affiliated with the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers and the Canadian Police Association. Our vision is to enhance our members’ lives by representing them through leadership, integrity, fairness, respect and unity. Working collaboratively with our membership and the Regina Police Service, we strive towards a respectful and professional work environment, continuing to meet the needs of the community. As an active contributor this past year, the RPA was involved in numerous community and fundraising events. Supporting sports organizations like the University of Regina Cougar Hockey Alumni Dinner, the Regina Red Sox Dinner and Auction, and the Regina Police Service half-marathon, helps athletic groups continue to develop and thrive. Through donations and attending local fundraising events, the RPA is able to help raise awareness of those charities that touch many of our lives, such as the Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit Dinner and Silent Auction hosted by TJ & Neysa Strueby, and the Clara Hughes Fundraiser for the Saskatchewan Schizophrenia Society. The police family extends far beyond the city borders and RPA reached out to the Calgary PoliceAssociation to help their members affected by the flooding last summer. Recognizing the importance of strong family support, the RPA organized events like the Regina Red Sox Baseball Family Day and the Children’s Christmas party; it’s our way of saying thanks to the spouses and children for supporting us! Remaining gifts were donated to families in need or local shelters. A yearly RPA Retirement Gala recognizes each retiring sworn and civilian member of the Regina Police Service. It’s our opportunity to give back to the members, thanking them for the years of dedication and service to our community and association. A dinner, photos and shared stories make it an enjoyable and elegant evening. Staff Sergeant Evan Bray has emceed this event for 13 years with grace and humour. Honouring each retiring member with a tribute to their career, Evan collects data and creates a story making each retiree feel valued and appreciated. 2014 marked Evan’s final hosting of the event and the membership wants to thank him for all his dedication, hard work and commitment not only for making it a top-notch event every year but also for his years of service to the RPA. It has been another busy year. I would like to thank the RPA membership, the Regina Police Service and our community partners for another successful year. Mark Verbeek Communications Officer Regina Police Association Evan Bray with Regina Police Service retiree Ron Roteliuk
24 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 1268 Albert Street, Regina, SK S4N 2R3 Tel. 306-546-2622 874 Prospect Ave, PO Box 238 Oxbow, SK S0C 2B0 Phone: (306) 483-2246 Fax: (306) 483-2803 Email: [email protected] Web: oxbowagenciesltd.com “We Care About Your Health!” University Park / Gordon Road Pharmacy 210 University Park Drive (306) 789-3333 Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 9 am - 6 pm Sat 10 am - 5 pm 4661 Rae Street (306) 586-4661 Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 8 am - 6 pm Sat 10 am - 4 pm “Supports Suicide Prevention Awareness” B-75 Lenore Drive Saskatoon SK S7K 7Y1 Ph: 306-934-2847 Fx: 306-934-2867 Email: [email protected] [email protected] Office Hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday to Friday
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 25 The Issue Every year close to 3,700 people in Canada commit suicide. Many of these deaths could be prevented by early recognition of the signs of suicidal thinking and appropriate intervention, and early identification and effective treatment of mental illness. Background According to a Public Health Agency of Canada report in 2006, suicide account or 1.7 % of all deaths in Canada. However, this statistic does not take into consideration those suicides wrongly reported as accidental deaths or cases where it is difficult to assess whether or not the death was intentional. In fact, between 2000 - 2003, the annual number of reported deaths from suicide was higher than the number of deaths from transport accidents. The suicide rate among men is nearly four times higher than the rate among women. However, women are twice as likely to attempt suicide as men. The difference seems to come from the fact that men more often use a more lethal means, such as firearms or hanging to end their lives. Women are more likely to choose a more prolonged method, such as an overdose of pills, where there is a greater chance of an intervention that will save their lives. Also, men are generally more reluctant to seek help on mental health issues than women. Among adults aged 15 years and older, more than 3% have attempted suicide in their lifetime. More than one in five deaths among adults between the ages of 15 and 24 years is due to suicide. Suicide rates are much higher in some Aboriginal communities. Despite the fact that almost everyone in Canada has been touched by suicide, there is still a stigma attached to it and to mental illness in general. Stigma is a complex issue involving many factors, including religious practices that do not allow people who commit suicide to be buried in sacred ground. This stigma can be a barrier to someone seeking help for suicidal feelings. Factors in Suicidal Behaviour There are four main factors that come into play in suicidal behaviour. Predisposing factors The factors that make an individual vulnerable to suicidal behaviour include: • Mental illness • Abuse • Loss of a loved one early in life • Family history of suicide •Long-term difficulty with peer relationships. Almost all people who kill themselves have a mental illness, such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or borderline personality disorder. They often abuse drugs or alcohol. Although people who commit suicide are commonly depressed, only a minority of people who are depressed are suicidal. Previous suicide attempts are common among those who eventually die by suicide. Precipitating factors These are the factors that create a crisis. The most common of these factors are losses, such as job loss, the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, divorce or loss of position in society. Other factors that may cause the crisis include: • Pressure to succeed • Conflict with the law ► SUICIDE PREVENTION
26 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers ® TRENT A. HERNER CAREY HERNER
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 27 • Financial difficulties • Rejection by society for some personal trait, such as ethnic origin or sexual orientation. What these factors have in common is that they are situations over which the individual feels no sense of control. They cause unbearable psychological pain that the individual feels will never end. Contributing factors These are the factors that make the individual even more vulnerable to suicidal behaviour. They can include: • Physical illness • Sexual identity issues • An unstable family environment • Risk-taking or self-destructive behaviour • The suicide of a friend • Isolation • Substance abuse. Protective factors These factors help to decrease the risk of suicide. They include: • A resilient personality • Tolerance for frustration • Self control • Good social supports • A sense of humour • At least one good relationship. Symptoms of Suicidal Behaviour More suicides could be prevented if people were aware of the warning signs for suicidal behaviour. People considering suicide often show one or more of these signs of distress. They may: • Repeatedly express that they feel hopeless, helpless or desperate, although many will not talk about it at all; • Experience a change in sleep patterns; • Lose their appetite or have no energy; • Make negative comments about themselves; • Lose interest in things they used to enjoy, such as friends, hobbies or sports; • Give away prize possessions and take other actions to put their affairs in order; • Express their final wishes to someone or talk about their suicidal thoughts, although again, many will not talk about it at all; • Have a plan as to how they will commit suicide, even giving the time and place. Minimizing The Risk If you or someone close to you shows some of these warning signs for suicide, here are steps you can take to help: • Most communities in Canada have access to a Crisis/Distress line staffed by people with experience in helping those considering suicide. Their telephone numbers are usually prominently displayed in the first few pages of the telephone directory. Call them for advice and referrals. • Help remove the stigma associated with suicide by talking openly and frankly with someone about suicidal feelings. Show interest and support. Blaming someone for their negative feelings or telling them to “pull themselves together” doesn’t help and may further isolate the individual by discouraging them to share thoughts or look for help. • Get professional help from your family doctor or a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist. They can make a difference. If a friend or family member is suicidal, it can be helpful to offer to go with them. ► SUICIDE PREVENTION
28 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers We support The Police Federation for all they do in our community!
Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 29 • Where possible, remove items that can be used for suicide, such as firearms, knives, over-the-counter medicines and drugs. Suicidal behaviour is often impulsive and restricting access to methods can substantially reduce the risk of a completed suicide. •Involve other friends and family members. The more support, the better for the person at risk and for you. • For more information and help, contact the mental health organizations listed in the “Need More Info?” section. Government of Canada’s Role The Government of Canada works to help Canadians maintain and improve their mental health, including preventing suicidal behaviour. Within its jurisdiction, the Government of Canada works to: • Develop and disseminate knowledge on mental health promotion and mental illness prevention; • Provide leadership and governance; • Develop social marketing campaigns; and • Conduct surveillance on health trends in population. In 2007, the federal government provided funding to establish and support The Mental Health Commission of Canada to lead the development of a national mental health strategy. Suicide Intervention: Who Can Help? It is important to know what resources are available. You are not alone; there are individuals and agencies willing and able to assist you, or someone else, in dealing with depression or thoughts of suicide. These same individuals and agencies can provide information and support to assist you in working with others. Each person's support network is unique; each community provides some kind of service. Generally, the following might provide initial and/or long-term support: • Family physicians • Family and community support services counsellors • Local health clinics • Employers •Coaches • Social workers • Police •Ministers, priests, rabbis and other religious leaders •Medical personnel • Psychologists • Emergency response personnel •Crisis/Suicide line Check with your health region for agencies in your community. http://www.health.gov.sk.ca/suicide-who-can-help SUICIDE PREVENTION
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Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 31 Highlights • In 2009, there were 3,890 suicides in Canada, a rate of 11.5 per 100,000 people. • The suicide rate for males was three times higher than the rate for females (17.9 versus 5.3 per 100,000). • Although suicide deaths affect almost all age groups, those aged 40 to 59 had the highest rates. • Married people had a lower suicide rate than those who were single, divorced or widowed. Suicide is a major cause of premature and preventable death. It is estimated, that in 2009 alone, there were about 100,000 years of potential life lost to Canadians under the age of 75 as a result of suicides. Research shows that mental illness is the most important risk factor for suicide; and that more than 90% of people who commit suicide have a mental or addictive disorder. Depression is the most common illness among those who die from suicide, with approximately 60% suffering from this condition. No single determinant, including important risk factor for suicide; and that more than 90% of people who commit suicide have a mental illness, is enough on its own to cause a suicide. Rather, suicide typically results from the interaction of many factors, for example: mental illness, marital breakdown, financial hardship, deteriorating physical health, a major loss, or a lack of social support. This article presents the latest statistics on suicide, looking primarily at trends and variations by sex, age and marital status. The main source of data is the Canadian Vital Statistics Death Database. The Canadian Vital Statistics Death Database collects demographic and cause of death information annually from all provincial and territorial vital statistics registries on all deaths in Canada. Suicide data from this source are somewhat underreported due to the difficult nature of classifying suicide and the time lag in determining this as the cause of death, which may vary from year to year and from one region to another. Chart 1: Age-standardized suicide rate, per 100,000, by sex, Canada, 1950-2009 Deaths by suicide, it should be noted, reflect only a small percentage of suicide attempts. It is estimated that for every completed suicide there are as many as 20 attempts. Although males are more likely to die from suicide, females are three to four times more likely to attempt it. Furthermore, females are hospitalized for attempted suicide 1.5 times more frequently than males. This discrepancy may be due to the fact that females tend to use less fatal methods, such as poisoning—the most common cause of self-harm hospital admissions— whereas males tend to use more violent methods such as hanging and firearms (see Chart 2). ► SUICIDE RATES: AN OVERVIEW
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Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 33 Methods of suicide vary by sex and age Over the past ten years, the most common method of suicide in Canada has been hanging (44%), which includes strangulation and suffocation; followed by poisoning (25%) and firearm use (16%). Males were most likely to commit suicide by hanging (46%) while females most often died by poisoning (42%) (see Chart 2). Males (20%) were far more likely to use firearms than females (3%). Chart 2: Percentage distribution of method used in suicide, by sex, Canada, 2000-2009 (ten year average) Even though hanging has been the most common method of suicide, it declined with age; 55% of 15 to 39 year-olds died as a result of hanging, compared with 30% of those aged 60 and older. The percentage of suicides involving a firearm, on the other hand, increased with age; 12% of 15 to 39 used a firearm, compared with 26% of those aged 60 and older (Chart 3). Variability in the method also increased with age. While most young people (15 to 39 years old) committed suicide by hanging, there was greater variability in the method of those aged 40 and older. Chart 3: Percentage distribution of method used in suicide, by age group, Canada, 2000-2009 (ten year average) The highest rates of suicide occur during mid-life When suicide deaths are examined across age groups, persons aged 40 to 59 have the highest rates (see Chart 4). Forty-five percent of all suicides in 2009 (1,769 out of a total of 3,890) were in this age group, compared with 35% for those aged 15 to 39, and 19% for those over the age of 60. This has been a persistent trend in Canada, yet contrasts with suicide trends in many other countries where the rate of suicide tends to increase with age. Chart 4: Suicides per 100,000, by age group and sex, Canada, 2009 ► SUICIDE RATES: AN OVERVIEW
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Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 35 Suicide is a leading cause of death in young people Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for people of all ages. In 2009, it ranked as the ninth leading cause of death in Canada. Among those aged 15 to 34, suicide was the second leading cause of death, preceded only by accidents (unintentional injuries). Because they do not generally die from natural causes, suicide represents a relatively large percentage of all deaths for younger age groups (15 to 34). After the age of 35, suicides as a proportion of all deaths start to decline as other causes become more common (Chart 5). Chart 5: Suicides as a percentage of all deaths, by age group and sex, Canada, 2009 In 2009, 202 individuals aged 15 to 19 committed suicide. This represented almost a quarter (23%) of all deaths in this age group, up from 9% in 1974. The relatively higher proportion of suicide deaths for this age group is due to the decline in overall mortality rates, a trend driven mainly by declines in accidental deaths which continue to be the leading cause of death for 15 to 19 year olds. Despite the progress in reducing deaths from accidents, however, suicide rates for this age group did not change significantly during this period (see Chart 6). Chart 6: Age-specific mortality with suicide and accident rates, per 100,000, ages 15 to 19, Canada, 1974 to 2009 Married people are the least likely to commit suicide For both men and women, married people were the least likely group to commit suicide. Single (never married) people were the most likely, at a rate 3.3 times higher, followed by widowed and divorced. Single men were much more likely to die from suicide than those who were married. Among women, widows had highest rates of suicide. The social support and companionship provided by marriage may be important conditions that help decrease the probability of suicide. The differences according to marital status may partially account for the higher rate of suicide amongst people aged 40 to 59 as people transition from married to divorced and widowed. While marriage provides a protective effect across all age groups, suicide rates among the divorced and widowed are particularly high for those aged 40 to 59 years. Divorced people in this age group have a suicide rate 1.7 times higher than divorced people of other ages. ► SUICIDE RATES: AN OVERVIEW
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Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 37 Widowhood also appears to have a greater effect on the middle-aged; the suicide rate in the widowed aged 40 to 59 years is 2.1 times higher than for the widowed 60 and older. Finally, single people 40 to 59 have double the suicide rates compared to singles of other ages. Previous research has found an association between the break-up of a marriage (or co-habiting relationship) and increased risk of depression, the most common mental health disorder amongst people who commit suicide. Given the relationship between marital breakdown and depression, and the association between depression and suicide, suicide rates were plotted with the divorce rates for the period 1950-2008. The trend lines show a similar pattern (see Chart 8). This finding is consistent with other studies which have found correlations between suicide and divorce in Canada. Chart 8: Divorce and suicide rates, per 100,000, Canada, 1950 to 2008 During the 1950s, divorce and suicide rates were fairly stable, but both began to rise during the 1960s. In 1968, Parliament passed the Divorce Act which established a federal-level divorce law. In the following year the divorce rate increased by 128%, and as Chart 8 shows, suicide rates moved in the same direction. In 1986 the Divorce Act was amended, reducing waiting times from three years of separation to one. This resulted in 1987 having the highest rate of divorce in Canadian history. This increase in divorces was paralleled by an increase in suicide rates. After the 1987 spike in the divorce rate, both divorce and suicide rates have seen a similar decline. Summary Using vital statistics to explore different aspects of suicide in Canada has shown that males are far more likely to commit suicide than females. Looking at suicides by age group for both sexes, the highest suicide rates were found in those aged 40 to 59. However, suicide ranks second as a leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 34. Looking at suicide deaths by marital status revealed significantly lower rates for married people, and there is a compelling parallel between historical trends for suicide and divorce. This finding would benefit from further research. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 82-624-X by Tanya Navaneelan Tanya Navaneelan is an analyst with the Health Statistics Division. The author wishes to acknowledge Shiang Ying Dai, Teresa Janz, Bob Kingsley, Brenda Wannell and Patricia Wood for their contributions. SUICIDE RATES: AN OVERVIEW
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Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 39 Suicides and Suicide Rate, by sex and age group (Both sexes no.) http://www.statcan.gc.ca/tables-tableaux/sum-som/l01/cst01/hlth66a-eng.htm 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Both sexes number of suicides All ages1 3,611 3,705 3,890 3,951 3,728 10 to 14 33 25 25 32 29 15 to 19 185 208 202 198 198 20 to 24 290 255 277 288 301 25 to 29 282 256 258 271 261 30 to 34 23 257 298 292 283 35 to 39 325 316 332 343 288 40 to 44 403 452 431 365 354 45 to 49 486 468 491 502 432 50 to 54 410 418 476 484 443 55 to 59 307 337 371 386 375 60 to 64 203 224 241 272 245 65 to 69 115 145 138 152 150 70 to 74 102 114 122 117 128 75 to 79 103 100 82 103 101 80 to 84 76 67 73 76 76 85 to 89 42 42 54 51 49 90 and older 14 21 19 19 13 1. "All ages" includes suicides of children under age 10 and suicides of persons of unknown age. Source: Statistics Canada, CANSIM, table 102-0551. Last modified: 2014-01-28.
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