Expert panel studies suicide prevention
Expert panel studies suicide prevention
HALIFAX – A report on suicide prevention by a panel of experts is expected to result in enhancements to the CF’s suicide prevention program.
Civilian and military representatives from Canada, the U.S., the U.K., Australia and the Netherlands met in Halifax two weeks ago to review literature and best practices from around the world. The panel will deliver its findings in a report to the CF Surgeon General later this year.
“One suicide is too many,” said LCol Rakesh Jetly, a
CF psychiatrist and member of the panel of experts. “We have a responsibility to do everything in our power to explore new approaches in order to reduce suicides in the CF.”
The panel’s workshops reviewed evidence-based best practices for suicide prevention, the effectiveness of educational programs, the epidemiology of suicide (data collection and analysis) and lessons learned from current suicide intervention programs.
Suicide is a concern for all Canadians. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people, after motor vehicle accidents.
Suicide rates in the CF are lower than those among the Canadian population and have been generally decreasing. The rate of suicide among CF men between 2000 and 2004 was about 75% of the rate among Canadian men (after figures are age-standardized). The rate of suicide among CF women is extremely low relative to the rate among Canadian women.
The CF offers suicide intervention training to all military and civilian personnel. A two-day, intensive, interactive, skill-based workshop called “ASIST” (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills) teaches participants practical suicide ’first aid’ skills so they can recognize those considering suicide and intervene to prevent it.
Shorter awareness sessions based on identifying signs, symptoms and resources are also available. For more information on training opportunities, contact your local health promotion office.
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