Today is World Suicide Prevention Day.

The Public Health Agency of Canada says

• About 11 people die by suicide each day
• There are about 4,000 deaths by suicide per year
• 1/3 of deaths by suicide are people 45-59 years
• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death of people 15 to 34
• Men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women.

The Sarnia Lambton Suicide Prevention Committee says World Suicide Prevention Day is a chance for everyone to join us in promoting understanding about suicide; those impacted by a suicide attempt or loss, family and friends, professionals, volunteers and community members.

“There is no reason that anyone has to die by suicide and if we all do our part, we can prevent those deaths that do happen and the devastating impact that they have.

“Taking a moment to reach out to someone – a close family member, a friend or even a stranger – can change the course of their life. Because talking about suicide is difficult, listening with a non-judgmental ear can help lessen feelings of isolation and remind the person that others care about them.”

Committee volunteers have been tying yellow ribbons around posts and trees to help remind people they are not alone.

Tonight (Thursday) at 7 pm, the committee is marking World Suicide Prevention Day online at www.sarnialambtonsuicideprevention.com. It will include four local suicide prevention organizations which will speak about what they are doing.