MEDIA RELEASE
Response to the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology’s Report: Doing What Works Rethinking the Federal Framework for Suicide Prevention
Vancouver, BC – The BC Crisis Line Network welcomes the release of the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology’s Report, Doing What Works: Rethinking the Federal Framework for Suicide Prevention.
As a leader across North America in suicide prevention, training and quality assurance, the BC Crisis Line Network commends the Senate Committee for their diligent work in rethinking Canada’s approach to suicide prevention.
“Suicide prevention requires a multifaceted approach that involves individuals, communities, and policymakers working together,” says Stacy Ashton, Chair of the BC Crisis Line Network. “We have been working closely with 9-8-8, the Provincial Health Services Authority, and the Canadian Mental Health Association to ensure 24/7 access to a crisis care continuum that meets people where they are in suicidal crisis, provides culturally-safe socioeconomic and mental health support without over-relying on police and coercive psychiatric interventions, and continues care until the person in crisis is back in control of their lives.”
Effective suicide prevention requires looking at more than mental health. “Suicide stems from crisis, and crisis has many beginnings,” says Stacy Ashton. “National suicide prevention plans that include strong means prevention initiatives, like suicide barriers on bridges, early education for youth, and healthy social safety nets to keep folks out of economic despair are the most effective in bringing suicide rates down.”
Ashton emphasizes the significance of the Senate Committee’s report: “We are grateful to the Senate Committee for their thorough examination of the pressing issue of suicide prevention. This report reinforces the importance of taking a comprehensive, nuanced, and collaborative approach to address the complex factors contributing to suicide in Canada.”
We look forward to continued collaboration with government agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders to implement the recommendations outlined in the report and make a meaningful impact in preventing suicides nationwide.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or considering suicide, please reach out:
- Anywhere in BC 1800SUICIDE: 1-800-784-2433
- Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 (no area code required)
Media Contact
Stacy Ashton
Executive Director
sashton@crisiscentre.bc.ca
Jeffrey Preiss
Director, Development & Communications
jpreiss@crisiscentre.bc.ca