World Suicide Prevention Day highlights Medicine Hat support services
Medicine Hat Family Service is using the awareness day to remind residents that counselling and prevention programs are available locally.
Why it matters
The day serves as a reminder that local counselling and crisis resources are available to Medicine Hat residents affected by suicide.
World Suicide Prevention Day was marked on Sept. 10, drawing attention to suicide prevention resources offered through Medicine Hat Family Service. Executive director Celina Symmonds said the day creates an opportunity to talk openly about suicide and let people know help exists, noting that conversations matter both for those struggling and for families who have lost someone to suicide.
The organization provides individual counselling and its Skills for Safer Living program for people and families affected by suicide, along with prevention programming for schools, businesses and community groups. A 1.5-hour session helps participants learn to recognize when someone may be struggling and how to intervene. The program is funded through the Canadian Mental Health Association in partnership with the Alberta government.
Symmonds said having this programming available locally ensures Medicine Hat and area residents can access suicide prevention resources within their own community. According to Recovery Alberta, suicide claims more than 720,000 lives globally each year.
Residents seeking support can call 211 or 811, or contact Medicine Hat Family Service at 403-504-8026. For immediate crisis support, people can call or text 988, the Suicide Crisis Helpline, or call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department in dangerous situations.
Compiled by the Alberta Daily Desk — an AI-written summary of reporting from the credited sources below, produced and reviewed under our editorial policy.