As Suicide Prevention Month comes to an end, Laura Melle, Director of Operations at Envision Counselling and Support Centre, stresses the importance of maintaining year-long open dialogue on suicide, a topic that many still find difficult due to the stigma attached.
"This month gives us the opportunity to talk about suicide, which a lot of people have difficulty talking about," Melle said. "But it also allows us to be a little bit more open with what our concerns are in the community."
While Envision does not have a program specifically for suicide prevention, the organization's Rapid Access Counselling does provide support for those dealing with mental health challenges, including suicidal thoughts. "Our counsellors are trained to handle anybody that comes in in crisis," she explained. "We have two Rapid Access Counsellors in Estevan. This is a free service."
Melle highlighted the warning signs of suicide, which can include withdrawal from social groups, expressing hopelessness, engaging in reckless behaviour, or making statements like "people would be better off without me." She urged the importance of recognizing these signs: "We want to make sure that we're paying attention to those signs and that we are able to ask those difficult questions, like, 'Are you thinking about harming yourself?'"
She noted that Envision Counselling is there to help individuals impacted by suicide, supporting not just those in crisis but their loved ones as well. "You don't have to go through it alone, and there are places that can help you," Melle affirmed.
Melle acknowledged there is still a continued stigma surrounding mental health, saying, "We need to be more open to make sure that when we are talking about suicide, it's not coming from a place of shame."
For anyone concerned about someone at risk, she emphasized the importance of direct communication: "Don’t be afraid to ask about suicidal thoughts. It doesn't make somebody think about suicide. It ensures they're safe."
For help, Melle shared several resources: "You can go to www.counsellingconnectsask.ca (you can book a session online with a registered social worker). If anyone wanted to call our office, we can help them get booked in. We also have an 'ask a counsellor' button on our website, www.envisioncounsellingcentre.com."
Other resources include the national 9-8-8 hotline: "9-8-8, text or call; www.988.ca is also a great resource," she added. And in emergencies, she urged: "Call 911 if the situation is urgent."
As Suicide Prevention Month concludes, Melle reminds the community to keep the conversation going: "We need to talk about it, not just this month, but every month."