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From the Canadian Mental Health Association:
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, contact:
* In case of Emergency call 911
* Kids Help Phone, online or 1-800-668-6868
* RCMP 1-800-442-9722
* The Canadian Mental Health Association
* Mental Health Outreach Services
* Department of Health and Wellness
* Teachers or guidance counselors
* Family physicians
Warning signs of a suicidal person:
The person is:
* Depressed
* Increasingly isolated
* Giving away prized possessions
* Doing poorly in school or at work
* Making statements about wanting to die
* Acting in an aggressive manner
* Taking unnecessary risks
* Threatening to commit suicide
* Suddenly happy for no reason after long depression
* Abusing drugs and/or alcohol
More than one sign could mean that help is necessary. Note how long the signs have been present – how deeply the person feels about the things going wrong in his or her life, and how many signs are present at one time.
What you can do to help a depressed or suicidal person:
* Listen to the person with concern
* Ask the person if he or she has ever felt unhappy for a long time and assure him or her that things can and will change.
* Be especially concerned if the person uses drug and/or alcohol because his or her judgment may be impaired.
* Ask if the person has suicidal thoughts.
* Stay with the person. Do something together.
* If the person is suicidal and refuses to get help, tell a responsible adult or someone you trust as soon as possible.
* Make specific plans to see the person the next day so he or she has a reason to hang on for one more day.
For more tips and advice during the crisis, read the first aid guidelines from the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention
Remember: You cannot take responsibility for another person's life – the decision is his or her own – you may, however, be able to help the person see other ways of dealing with his or her problems and pain.