What is Suicide Loss Survivor Month, and why is it significant for youth mental health?
The Power of Community in Healing
International Day for People Impacted by Suicide Loss (IDPISL) takes place in November of each year and embodies the healing power of community.
Like a garden where each plant supports the growth of others, these gatherings create an environment of mutual understanding and support. Survivors find solace in knowing they are not alone in their journey, and that others can relate to their complex emotions
In 2024, it will take Saturday, November 23rd, 2024. On this day people impacted by suicide loss will come together to foster community, to remember loved ones, and to share stories of loss, healing, and hope.
Purpose and Goals of Suicide Loss Survivor Month
Suicide Loss Survivor Month, observed in November, is a significant time dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for those who have lost loved ones to suicide, with a particular focus on youth mental health.
This observance is crucial for several reasons:
- Raise Awareness: It aims to increase public understanding of the impact of suicide loss on survivors, especially young people.
- Provide Support: The month focuses on connecting survivors with resources and support systems to help them cope with their grief.
- Reduce Stigma: By encouraging open conversations about suicide and mental health, it works to reduce the stigma surrounding these topics.
- Promote Healing: Events and activities during this month are designed to facilitate healing and provide comfort to those affected by suicide loss.
Importance for Suicide Loss Survivor Month
Losing someone to suicide can have profound and unique effects on young people, presenting them with a complex set of emotional, psychological, and social challenges.
The impact on youth is particularly significant due to their developmental stage and limited life experience in dealing with such traumatic events.
Young people who lose someone to suicide often experience a range of intense and conflicting emotions, such as guilt, self-blame, confusion, anger, shame, and stigma.
The psychological impact of suicide loss on youth can also have profound long-lasting impacts. Young suicide loss survivors are at higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They may also be at increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors themselves.
Depending on their age, children and adolescents may not fully understand the permanence of death or the complexities of suicide, which can complicate their grieving process.Grief can significantly impact concentration and academic performance, potentially affecting a young person's educational trajectory.
In conclusion, the impact of suicide loss on young people is multifaceted and profound, affecting their emotional well-being, psychological health, and social relationships. It's crucial for these young survivors to receive appropriate support and understanding to navigate their grief and prevent long-term negative outcomes.
Suicide Loss Survivor Month is particularly significant for youth mental health for several reasons:
- Impact on Young Survivors: One in five teens has lost a friend, relative, or acquaintance to suicide. This month provides a dedicated time to address the unique challenges faced by young survivors.
- Vulnerability of Youth: Adolescents are at a critical stage of emotional and social development. Losing someone to suicide can have profound and long-lasting effects on their mental health and well-being.
- Peer Support: The month encourages the creation of support networks among young survivors, which can be crucial for their healing process.
- Education and Resources: It provides an opportunity to educate young people about mental health, suicide prevention, and coping strategies.
- Breaking the Cycle: By addressing the impact of suicide on young survivors, it aims to prevent future suicides and promote mental health awareness among youth.
Activities for Suicide Loss Survivor Month
During Suicide Loss Survivor Month, various activities and initiatives are organized to support survivors:
- Survivor Day Events: The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention organizes hundreds of Survivor Day events where survivors can connect and find support. Organize assemblies, workshops, or panel discussions to educate students and community members about suicide prevention, mental health, and supporting survivors of suicide loss.
- Educational Programs: Schools and community organizations often host programs to educate youth about mental health and suicide prevention1.
- Support Groups: Special support groups for young survivors are often formed or highlighted during this month. Invite mental health professionals or suicide loss survivors to speak and share their experiences.
- Awareness Campaigns: Social media campaigns and public events are organized to raise awareness and reduce stigma. Share positive messages of hope and support on school/community social media channels
- Workplace and School Awareness: Train staff and students on how to have supportive conversations about suicide loss. Introduce evidence-based suicide prevention curricula in schools.
- Resource sharing: Share information about crisis hotlines, counseling services, and other mental health resources and encourage students and community members to reach out for help if needed.
Remember to approach these activities with sensitivity, ensuring that proper support is available for those who may be triggered or emotionally affected. It's also important to follow safe messaging guidelines when discussing suicide to prevent potential contagion effects.
By focusing on youth mental health during Suicide Loss Survivor Month, we can provide crucial support to young survivors, promote healing, and work towards preventing future tragedies.
This observance serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for continued support for those affected by suicide loss.
What resources and support systems are available for young suicide loss survivors, and how can they access them?
Canada offers several resources and support systems for young suicide loss survivors. Here's an overview of available services and how to access them:
Counseling Services and Support Groups
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
The CMHA provides a range of mental health services, including counseling and support groups for suicide loss survivors.
Many local CMHA branches offer specialized programs for youth. To find services in your area:
- Visit the CMHA website
- Use their branch locator tool
- Contact your local branch for information on youth-specific programs
This organization offers support specifically for suicide loss survivors, including services for children and youth:
- 12-week support groups
- Drop-in group meetings
- Individual counseling and peer support
- Grief counseling for ages 3-18, tailored to individual needs
- In-person sessions at their Oakville office or virtual sessions via Zoom
- No cost to families
To access these services, email amanda@Heartache2Hope.com or call 905-599-4673.
Helplines
Available 24/7 for Canadians aged 5 to 297:
- Call 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free)
- Text CONNECT to 686868
- Online chat support available on their website
A national suicide prevention service offering 24/7 support7:
- Call or text 9-8-8
- Provides bilingual, trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate support.
Find additional crisis resources from YMHC here.
Online Resource
Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP)
CASP provides various resources for suicide loss survivors:
- Toolkits for people impacted by suicide loss
- Guides for talking to children about suicide
- Directory of suicide survivor support groups across Canada
YMHC Resources
Youth Mental Health Canada (YMHC) is committed to supporting those impacted by suicide and those who have lost someone to suicide through a variety of resources, including:
- Mental Wellness Workbooks: Our mental wellness workbooks are designed to help individuals build resilience and coping strategies. These workbooks incorporate evidence-based practices and are available in multiple formats. Explore our workbooks.
- Mental Health Booklets: These booklets are designed to support you in developing a plan for wellness, challenging your negative thoughts, navigating stress, and understanding your feelings. Explore our booklets.
- Multilingual Posters: Mental health slogans are a great way to promote hope within your community. You can order these mental wellness posters in multiple languages to support your own wellness or the wellbeing of your community.
- Workshops and Presentations: YMHC offers workshops and presentations tailored to various audiences, including students, parents, educators, and community organizations. These sessions cover topics such as mental health, substance use prevention, and coping strategies. Request a workshop.
- Merch: We have a variety of products to send mental wellness gifts to someone you care about or purchase for your entire school community. We have t-shirts, sweaters, dog bandanas, cups, stickers, buttons, stuffed animals, coffee mugs, pillows, notebooks, and more. You can select from products with the YMHC logo, animal puns, Every Child Matters, or customize your own product.
- Training Courses: Our training courses provide in-depth knowledge and skills to support individuals with mental health challenges and substance use disorders. Learn more about our training courses.
- Support services: We offer various support services, including counseling and peer support programs, the heart-to-heart campaign, and daily messages of support to help individuals and families navigate mental health and substance use challenges.
Accessing Support
- Reach out: Don't hesitate to contact these services. They are there to help.
- Explore local options: Check with schools, community centers, or local health services for additional support groups or counseling options.
- Utilize online resources: Many organizations offer online materials, webinars, and virtual support groups that can be accessed from anywhere.
- Involve trusted adults: Parents, guardians, or other trusted adults can help navigate these resources and provide additional support.
- Peer support: Consider connecting with other young people who have experienced similar losses through supervised support groups or online communities.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. These resources are designed to provide support and understanding during a difficult time. If you're struggling, don't hesitate to reach out to any of these services for assistance.
Using these resources and participating in Suicide Loss Survivor Day, can help us work together to remember loved ones, and to share stories of loss, healing, and hope, ultimately saving lives through post suicide prevention.