September 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Day, an opportunity to raise awareness, encourage meaningful conversations and strengthen how we support children and youth who may be experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” reminds us of the importance of creating space for open, informed and supportive conversations about suicide and mental health.
At the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CAST), supporting the safety and well-being of children and youth includes recognizing the experiences and circumstances that can affect their mental health. It also means continuing to build the knowledge and confidence of our staff so they can recognize concerns, have informed conversations and connect children, youth and families with support when needed.
Understanding the Connection Between Bullying and Suicide Prevention
This year, CAST is continuing to strengthen organizational learning around bullying and its connection to suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
Experiences of bullying can contribute to emotional distress and may be an important consideration when supporting a child or youth who is struggling. Understanding this connection can help staff recognize concerns, ask informed questions and consider what additional supports may be helpful.
As part of our broader approach to suicide prevention, CAST continues to provide learning opportunities related to suicide prevention and bullying, including training for new staff and foster parents.
Supporting Staff Through Consultation
CAST’s Suicide Prevention Consultation Panel provides Service teams with an additional source of support when navigating concerns related to suicide risk, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
Through consultation, teams have an opportunity to discuss concerns, consider different perspectives and receive recommendations that can help inform their work with children, youth and caregivers. The panel provides a dedicated space for staff to seek additional guidance while navigating complex situations and considering the individual circumstances and needs of each child, youth and family.
Continuing to Build Our Capacity
Suicide prevention is ongoing work. Through training, consultation and continued conversations, CAST is strengthening our collective ability to recognize concerns and respond in ways that are thoughtful, informed and supportive.
On World Suicide Prevention Day, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of children, youth and families and continuing to build the knowledge and confidence needed to have conversations that can make a difference.
To learn more about CAST and our work supporting children, youth and families, please contact inquiries@torontocas.ca.
