As the world observes World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, Bellevue Hospital is encouraging homes, schools, workplaces, churches and community groups to play a more active role in recognising emotional distress and supporting persons who may be struggling.

The hospital says suicide prevention must be treated as more than a clinical issue. While hospitals and mental health professionals play an important role, early signs of distress are often first noticed in the everyday spaces where people live, learn, work, worship and connect.

Bellevue Hospital’s Acting Senior Medical Officer, Dr. Lasilva Thomas, said communities have a major role to play in suicide prevention.

“We live in communities, whether in our homes, workplaces or schools, and the attitudes, behaviours and overall way of life of persons in these spaces can influence someone’s mental well-being,” Dr. Thomas said. “Hospitals and mental health professionals are only one part of the community. It is communities in their entirety that will make the greatest impact in suicide prevention.”

According to Dr. Thomas, persons experiencing emotional distress may not always openly state that they need help. Warning signs may include depressed mood, irritability, self-harm or risky behaviours such as substance use, social withdrawal, changes in sleep or appetite, poor concentration, decreased functioning, and neglect of personal care.

She said families and friends can offer meaningful support by paying attention and showing care in practical ways.

“Persons who are having a difficult time navigating life will have varying wants and needs. Families and friends can actively show they care by letting the person know they are available if they want to talk, and by helping in practical ways,” Dr. Thomas said.

She noted that support may look different depending on the individual’s circumstances. For example, practical assistance such as helping with childcare for a single mother experiencing depression can make a meaningful difference.

Bellevue Hospital is also encouraging schools and workplaces to respond to signs of emotional distress with empathy rather than judgement.

“It is important that persons in both institutions have knowledge about the signs of emotional distress,” Dr. Thomas said. “It is also important not to label persons as being ‘bad’ or ‘lazy’ without reaching out to them in an empathetic way to understand what they are going through and working alongside them to resolve the issues.”

The hospital says churches, youth groups, service clubs and community organisations can also support suicide prevention by helping to reduce stigma and encouraging persons to seek help early.

Dr. Thomas noted that stigma can be reduced through educational sessions, testimonials and information about available pathways to care.

“Talking about mental health helps to normalise the fact that persons do struggle, and testimonials can help people understand that help is available,” she said.

For persons who may want to support someone but are unsure what to say, Dr. Thomas said support does not require having all the answers.

“Sometimes helping someone may just be giving a listening ear or showing you care in practical ways. You could ask, ‘Is there anything I can do to help you in any way today?’ Even if the person says no, they may feel better simply because you asked. Sometimes sitting quietly with someone helps,” she said.

Bellevue Hospital is reminding the public that suicide prevention begins with awareness, compassion and connection. Checking in on someone, listening without judgement, taking warning signs seriously and encouraging professional support can make a meaningful difference.

“Suicide is preventable,” Dr. Thomas said. “Check in with persons within our communities. Ask someone how they are doing and be ready to listen and show that you care.”

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available through the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Helpline at 888-NEW-LIFE or 888-639-5433.