WHEREAS World Suicide Prevention Day is a time to join with others across the world to declare our commitment to preventing suicide. To spread the message that healing is possible, and that there is always hope and a helping hand so that no one faces these challenges alone; and
WHEREAS each death by suicide directly impacts numerous family members, friends, loved ones, and by extension the entire community. Every day approximately 11 people end their lives by suicide in Canada. Another 210 will attempt suicide. For each death by suicide, it is estimated that the lives of 7-10 bereaved survivors are profoundly affected; and
WHEREAS suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, orientation, income level, religion, or background; and
WHEREAS the stigma associated with suicide works against suicide prevention by discouraging individuals thinking about suicide from receiving life-saving help, and further traumatizes survivors of suicide; and
WHEREAS suicide is a highly preventable tragedy. Awareness and open and direct talk about suicide is key to making Brantford suicide safer communities. Individuals and communities can work together to help prevent suicide by becoming aware of warnings signs and risk factors and knowing where to get help for individuals in distress; and
WHEREAS we encourage all residents to take the time to inquire as to the well-being of their family, friends, and neighbors over the next few days and to genuinely convey their appreciation for their life by any gesture they deem appropriate. A simple phone call, message, act of kindness or gesture could help someone realize that suicide is not the answer; and
WHEREAS we wish to honor and thank those who have given of their time to receive formal suicide prevention training, who have reached out to someone in their time of need, and to those who join us now to stand together beside those who have attempted suicide, who have struggled with suicidal thoughts, who have had a difficult journey, and to the family and friends of those who have died by suicide and feel the effects every day, we stand with you to say that you are not alone and that the Brantford community is here for you;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of The Corporation of the City of Brantford HEREBY PROCLAIMS September 10th, 2020 as "Suicide Prevention Day" and strongly encourage all members of our community to become educated, take all signs of suicide seriously, encourage conversations about mental health in order to break the stigma, and promote hope and help to everyone in our community.