Suicide touches more lives than we realize, yet too often remains hidden behind silence and stigma. This blog explores the realities of suicide in Canada, how to recognize warning signs, and why consistent check-ins matter. It also shares ways to support someone in crisis, guidance for families grieving a suicide loss, and the role therapy and community resources play in healing. Together, we can create a culture of care, connection, and hope.
Speaking Up for the Silent Struggles Around Us
Every day, someone you know may be fighting an invisible battle. Mental health challenges, emotional pain, and suicidal thoughts often live in silence hidden behind smiles, busy routines, and “just pushing through”. Suicide Awareness & Prevention Month is an opportunity to break that silence. It’s a time to speak up, check in, and show that hope and help are always possible.
At The Relationship Centre, we believe awareness leads to understanding, and understanding leads to healing. By opening this conversation, we can help save lives.
Book A Free Consultation with our Client Care Coordinator
Understanding The Impact: Suicide in Canada
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in Canada. Each year, over 4,000 people die by suicide, that’s roughly 11 lives lost every single day. It is more common than we think and is increasing each year. Everyone knows someone who has been touched by it, whether it’s a family member, a friend, a coworker, or a neighbour.
Despite how widespread it is, suicide still carries a heavy stigma. Too many people continue to struggle in silence, believing no one will understand or that nothing can change. But that is not true. There is always help. There is always hope.
Recognizing the Signs: What to Look For
Suicide often doesn’t look how we would expect it to. It doesn’t always announce itself loudly. Sometimes it whispers in small behaviours and subtle changes. Recognizing the signs can be lifesaving.
Common emotional and behavioural signs to pay attention to:
- Expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Withdrawing from loved ones or usual activities
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or mood
- Increased substance use
- Sudden calmness or contentment after a period of depression
- Talking about death, dying, or suicide directly or indirectly
- Giving away personal possessions or writing goodbye messages
If something feels off, trust your instincts. It’s better to ask and be wrong than to stay silent. A simple “How are you really doing?” can open the door for someone who has been holding everything inside.
Checking in once matters, but checking in consistently can make all the difference. When people feel seen and supported over time, they are less likely to believe they are alone in their pain. Your steady presence, whether it’s a quick text, a phone call, or showing up for coffee can remind someone that their life has value, that they matter, and that help is within reach.
It doesn’t take the “perfect” words or a professional script to make an impact. What matters is showing genuine care, listening without judgment, and letting them know they don’t have to carry the weight alone.
How to Help: Supporting Someone in Crisis
Supporting someone who may be suicidal can feel overwhelming. But you don’t need to have all the answers, you just need to show up with empathy, compassion, and presence.
Start the conversation:
Create a safe space and ask, “How are you feeling?” or “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” Asking directly shows that you care and can relieve some of the pressure they feel inside.
Offer non-judgmental support:
Let them speak freely without trying to “fix” their feelings. Validate their pain, acknowledge their courage for speaking up, and remind them they’re not alone.
Encourage professional help:
Suggest connecting with a therapist or support service. Offer to make the call or go with them to an appointment.
Check in regularly:
Even after the immediate crisis has passed, staying connected is key. A simple message or visit can remind someone they matter.
Supporting Loved Ones After a Suicide Loss
Grief Doesn’t Follow a Timeline. Compassion Shouldn’t Either.
Losing someone to suicide is a profoundly painful and often complicated experience. Alongside the deep grief, survivors may carry guilt, shame, confusion, or anger. There’s no single way to process this kind of loss and no timeline for how long it takes to heal.
Here are ways you can support grieving families and friends:
Be present without pushing.
Sometimes, quiet companionship is the greatest comfort. Offer your presence without expecting conversation or emotional responses.
Avoid judgment or speculation.
Questions like “Didn’t you notice?” or “Why didn’t they ask for help?” can add to the burden of grief. Instead, offer reassurance: “You are not alone, and this is not your fault.”
Acknowledge the loss openly.
Use the person’s name. Share memories if you have them. This can be a lifeline for survivors who feel isolated in their grief.
Help with daily life.
Practical help like preparing meals, running errands, or offering childcare can provide relief from immediate stressors during overwhelming times.
Encourage therapy or support groups.
Mental health support is essential for survivors. Our therapists at The Relationship Centre are experienced in supporting individuals and families through the aftermath of suicide loss.
Keep showing up.
Long after the service is over and condolences stop, grief remains. Remember birthdays, anniversaries, and hard days with a message or check-in.
The Role of Therapy: Healing Through Connection
Therapy is a safe, supportive space where healing begins. At The Relationship Centre, our therapists work with individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional overwhelm, depression, trauma, grief, and more.
We don’t just listen, we partner with you to explore your pain, build emotional regulation and coping tools, and help you rediscover your sense of worth and purpose. Our approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and personalized to you and your story.
If you’re struggling or you’re caring for someone who is, therapy can provide the clarity, tools, and support to help move forward.
Book A Free Consultation with our Client Care Coordinator
Crisis Resources: You Are Never Alone
If you or someone you know is in immediate risk or danger, call 911. For emotional support or crisis intervention, these Canadian services are here to help 24/7:
ConnexOntario
24/7 information and referral service for mental health, addictions, and problem gambling.
Phone: 1-866-531-2600
connexontario.ca
988 Suicide Crisis Helpline
New nationwide service (launched 2023) available 24/7 for immediate support in suicidal crisis.
Dial: 988
https://988.ca/
Good2Talk (Post-Secondary Students)
24/7 support for college and university students in Ontario.
Phone: 1-866-925-5454
Text: GOOD2TALKON to 686868
https://good2talk.ca/
A Community Responsibility: Let’s End the Silence Together
Suicide prevention doesn’t belong only in the hands of professionals. It belongs to all of us friends, families, educators, coworkers, and neighbours. By learning the signs, speaking up, offering support, and sharing resources, we create a safety net for those silently struggling.
Every life matters. Every story deserves to be heard. And every person deserves a chance to heal.
