Today (Saturday, September 10th, 2016) is World Suicide Prevention Day.
With students now back to school throughout the region, some may deal with added pressures that may trigger some form of mental illness like depression, anxiety, and in some cases even thoughts of suicide.
Jennifer Mulcaster, executive director at WesForYouthOnline in Walkerton, says there is help out there for local youth and teens who are struggling.
She says the first big step is to talk about it.
"Talk to your young people, talk to your friends both adults and youth alike, share your story if you have one. The unfortunate thing in Canada is that one in five of us struggle with our mental health; they have a story to be told so let's listen to them, often times that's the best way to solidify saying it's okay," says Mulcaster.
Mulcaster adds listening to someone and showing them that you care is also an important step toward making a difference in the life of someone who may be struggling.
"Ask them if they are okay, listen to them and what they have to say in a non-judgmental way and letting them know that you care can have a significant impact," notes Mulcaster.
WesForYouthOnline offers counselling and support to local teens and youth within Grey and Bruce Counties and surrounding area.
