Many of us face challenges throughout our lives, some more than others. However the realization that these problems are temporary and that you don't have to go through your struggles alone has provided hope for many to go on living. This page provides a variety of local and provincial resources that are available for information and support.
Learning that someone you know or care about is thinking about suicide can be overwhelming. However, you don’t have to deal with it alone. Refer to the resources below for support available within the community
* Please note: If you are in crisis or require immediate support please contact The Niagara Crisis Line at 1-866-550-5205
For immediate risk call 9-1-1
Niagara Region Suicide Prevention Strategy
Please find a link to Niagara Region's Suicide Prevention Strategy, first published in 2006. This publication was a community initiative facilitated by David Masecar and resulted from the collective input and effort of many members of the Niagara Region.
Canadian National Suicide Prevention Strategy
Please find a link to the current blueprint for the Canadian National Suicide Prevention Strategy attached. Bill C300 passed it's third reading in the House of Commons on June 18, 2012. This is very exciting news as Canada has previously been without a strategy to reduce the impact of suicide, in spite of it being a prominent National concern.
Publications
A tribute to a dear friend...Much of my knowledge in the area of suicide prevention and intervention was inspired by my mentor and close friend David Masecar. His strengths focused and community-based approaches are innovative and enlightening. David freely shared his knowledge and touched many lives through his ability to help people identify their strengths and potential solutions. Unfortunately David passed away in December of 2010. He has had, and will undoubtedly continue to have a profound impact on suicide prevention and intervention. It is my hope that his work will continue to have an impact on educating, empowering, and changing the way we look at suicide awareness, prevention, intervention, and postvention.
I have included a PDF copy of his publication,What is Working, What is Hopefuland would recommend this as a valuable asset for anyone seeking to make an impact in the area of suicide prevention.
David also has a publication on Cluster Suicides which provides education around cluster suicides and strategies for prevention of contagion.
The National Institute for Trauma and Loss offers an online coursefocusing on suicide prevention, intervention and postvention. The course includes strategies for building resilience at the individual, organizational, and community level as well. There is a strong focus on intervention in schools, inclusive of template policies and procedures, letters for parents, and appropriate responses and it has been used broadly within the US school system. Updates have included resources and supports for individuals of all ages and practice areas based on current research and evidence-based practices. The course is self-paced, affordable, and provides many extra strategies and resources.