Youth can be stressful—full of ups, downs, and moments of self-discovery and impossible challenges. Transitioning to adulthood can be overwhelming, sometimes leading to thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Yet, adolescence is often ignored in mental health discussions.
Spotting the signs that someone’s struggling could be as simple as listening a little more—like to peers you hang out with every day, between classes, or just passing by in the hall. But not everyone knows what to do next. The thing is, we all have a part to play in preventing youth suicide.
If you need help, phone or text the Suicide Crisis Hotline anytime. Just dial or text 9-8-8.
The ConnecTeen Youth Support Helpline is open 24/7. Call us at 403-264-TEEN (403-264-8336).
Understanding the Statistics
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, suicide is the second leading cause of death among Canadian youth aged 15 to 34.
This isn’t just a statistic. It’s personal. It’s about our friends, peers, and loved ones.
This rise in the number of young individuals considering or attempting suicide is alarming, and it is rooted in complex issues that often remain unaddressed.
Dissecting the Pressures
Competitive academic environments, social stressors, family issues, and the always-present spotlight of social media are just some of the factors that can contribute to the mental health challenges youth face today.
The pressure to excel, fit in, conform to an idealized image, and deal with personal crises is very real. These factors, when combined, can create what feels like an insurmountable wall, leaving Canadian youth to feel isolated and without hope.
The Lifelines: Peer Support & Professional Help
Spotting the problem is just the first step. Figuring out how to handle it? That’s a whole different ball game.
Peer support systems and professional mental health resources are lifelines that can help youth find their way back from the edge.
When you’re feeling stuck—or just need someone to talk to—there’s always someone ready to lend an ear. If reaching out to your usual crew feels like too much, call or text the ConnecTeen helpline. We’re all ears, in whatever way works for you.
The Power of Peer Connection
Many times, it’s a friend who spots the little signs that things aren’t all okay. Peer support can be crucial in preventing suicide, creating a space where everyone feels like they belong and aren’t alone.
If you see a friend struggling, being there to listen could be the thing that helps someone in crisis find the support they need.
And if you’re feeling down, reach out to someone you trust. Let your friend or peer know that you need time to talk.
The Role of Mental Health Professionals
While peer support is crucial, it often needs to be reinforced with the expertise of mental health professionals. Trained individuals can offer structured support systems, therapies, and medication that can help youth manage their mental health challenges and work through their distress.
Professionals play a multi-faceted role in preventing youth suicide, from education and early detection to intervention and long-term care.
Remember, mental health professionals aren’t just there for emergencies: getting support with the small things can give you the tools to overcome the big things.
Talking Is Free: Encourage an Open Dialogue
The power of conversation cannot be overstated. It may seem too simple, but having open and honest discussions about mental health and suicide is the first step in encouraging help-seeking behaviour among our youth.
Creating Safe Spaces
Youth need spaces where they feel safe expressing their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. These spaces can exist in schools, communities, and even online through support hotlines that keep their conversations confidential.
While we’re proud to recommend the ConnecTeen live chat or text, you may also have a preferred local community or school group that offers the same trust and support.
Educating About Warning Signs
Understanding the signs that a peer might be considering suicide can empower you to take action and potentially save a life by connecting a friend to the help they need.
Here are some common warning signs that can indicate someone is in distress:
- Giving away belongings
- Talking about hopelessness
- Wanting to die or disappear
- Talking, writing, or drawing about death
- Withdrawing from friends & family
- Being angry or hostile
- Doing risky things
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
A Call to Action for Canada’s Youth
The path to suicide prevention is paved with the collective actions of every generation. It’s time to take charge, support one another, and make seeking help the norm rather than the exception.
Preventing youth suicide is a community responsibility. By participating in local mental health awareness events, joining peer-led support groups, and advocating for mental health awareness, we can create a network that supports our youth when they need it most.
It Starts with You & Us
You, the reader of this blog, hold the keys to making a real difference in the fight against youth suicide in Canada. By informing yourself and others, by being there for your peers, and by fostering a supportive environment, you can be an advocate for positive change in the lives of youth struggling with their mental health.
It’s our mission at ConnecTeen to spread awareness so more youth know who to talk to and how to take action that can save lives.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. We’re ready to listen and support you. No judgments here. Just help whenever you need it.
Call the ConnecTeen Youth Support Helpline at 403-264-TEEN (403-264-8336) or 9-8-8 for the Suicide Crisis Hotline.
