Across Inuit Nunangat, high rates of suicide are linked to a variety of factors, including the devastating impacts of colonization, intergenerational trauma, overcrowded housing, food insecurity, witnessing or experiencing physical or sexual abuse, and the loss of culture and language. Collaboratively reducing suicide risk while increasing protective factors and building resilience are effective suicide prevention measures.
As we approach World Mental Health Day, the Government of Canada and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) are announcing $11 million in new supports to help strengthen the National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy. This funding comes from Budget 2022 measures and builds on previous investments in Budget 2019.
Launched by Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) in 2016, the National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy is an Inuit-led, evidence-based, and globally informed approach to reducing suicide among Inuit in Inuit Nunangat. Its six priority areas for action include: creating social equity, creating cultural continuity, nurturing healthy Inuit children, ensuring access to a continuum of mental wellness services for Inuit, healing unresolved trauma and grief, and mobilizing Inuit knowledge for resilience and suicide prevention.
This new investment announced today will assist the ongoing work of ITK and Inuit Land Claim Organizations, which takes a holistic, Inuit-specific approach to suicide prevention and focuses on systemic changes, early intervention and support, so that individuals are less likely to reach the point where they consider suicide. Funding will help provide greater access to programs and services, build capacity, and support monitoring and evaluation.
For those in need, the Hope for Wellness Helpline provides immediate, culturally safe, telephone crisis intervention support for all Indigenous Peoples in Canada, 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-855-242-3310 or the online chat at hopeforwellness.ca in English and French, and upon request in Inuktitut, Cree and Ojibway. Youth in need of support can also call Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868, or text 686868.