Free suicide grief support group and prevention training available this fall

The Canadian Mental Health Association, North Bay and District is expanding efforts toward a suicide-safer community on World Suicide Prevention Day by introducing two free opportunities for the public: a new eight-week suicide grief support group and a safeTALK suicide alertness workshop.

Registration is now open and interested participants are encouraged to sign up early as space is limited.

The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on September 10, is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide” and a societal transformation of how this complex issue is understood.

“By creating more opportunities for awareness, connection, and healing in the community our goal is to shift the conversation from stigma and silence to hope,” said Mary Davis, CEO of CMHA North Bay and District.

The new grief support group provides a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate space for people who have lost someone to suicide. This eight-week program is led by a certified traumatic loss facilitator and a psychotherapist to ensure safety and care. Participants will gain insight into the grieving process, learn practical tools for navigating loss, share restorative storytelling, and connect with others coping with similar experiences.

safeTALK is a half-day in-person workshop open to individuals aged 18 and older. It helps participants recognize when someone may be having thoughts of suicide and teaches them how to start a conversation and connect that person with further resources.

Both opportunities are offered free of charge, thanks to a generous grant from Chat4Chad. (Registration information below.)

Suicide continues to be a critical public health issue, claiming an estimated 4,500 lives in Canada every year. For each death by suicide, 15 to 30 people are profoundly affected, according to a U.S. study. Survivors of suicide loss also face an increased risk of suicide, which makes postvention supports such as the new grief group an important part of overall suicide prevention strategies.

“Suicide is not an isolated event,” Davis said. “It sends ripples through families, workplaces and communities. For every life lost, many more people are left grappling with grief, guilt and unanswered questions.

“We are proud to expand both prevention and postvention support in our region, filling a crucial gap,” she added. “Our new support group acknowledges the unique and often intense challenges of survivors of suicide loss, while safeTALK training equips more people in our community to recognize risks and connect others with help.”