111 Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers Coffee shop photo created by rawpixel.com - www.freepik.com that increases their risk of suicide.The fact that they may have spent their working years in individualized, isolated, demanding careers, such as farming or ranching, makes it less likely that they will reach out for help. The chronic shortage of mental health professionals trained to help older adults in rural areas makes getting the right kind of support even more difficult (Gomez et al., 2020; Neufeld et al., 2015;Arbore, 2019). People in sexual and gender minorities Young people Access to in-person mental health services is often limited in rural and remote communities, and for young people, who are generally less likely to access these services, getting professional help may be even harder. Since those willing to seek out these services may not have the financial means or transportation to access them, they may not be able to find help when they are struggling and considering suicide (Rhodes et al., 2018). Men Men die by suicide three times as often as women, and much of this is due to their socialization. Because of it, men – especially those living in rural and remote communities – may be more likely to suppress their emotions and not seek help. Young men in rural communities are also more likely than those in urban centres to die by suicide due to the same kind of socialization (Creighton et al., 2017). What can reduce risk? Many factors can contribute to building resiliency in people living in rural and remote communities: • Supportive and strong relationships • Access to confidential mental health care (in-person, on the phone, online) • The ability or willingness to share and express emotions • The readiness to look for support when it’s needed • The safe storage of firearms: locking them away, removing ammunition, and storing ammunition separately (Houle et al., 2008;American Psychological Association, 2005) Warning signs Any significant change in behaviour or mood is a warning sign that someone may be thinking about suicide. For example: • Losing interest in a previously enjoyed hobby or activity • Disconnecting from friends or family (not calling as much, not going out) • Changes in sleeping or eating patterns Statements of hopelessness or talk of being a burden can also be warning signs: Rural and remote communities and suicide prevention (continued) (continued)
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