(Cochrane, AB) – On Sunday, September 10, Cochrane joins the global observance of World Suicide Prevention Day, a vital occasion to raise awareness around the topic of suicide and reaffirm Cochrane's commitment to providing essential mental health support and suicide prevention resources for residents.
This year's theme, "creating hope through action," presents an opportunity for the community to come together, reflect on and comprehend the far-reaching impacts of suicide. It is a day dedicated to open conversations about mental health and dismantling the societal stigmas linked to suicide.
"Over the past few years, Cochrane, like many communities across Canada, has witnessed a rise in stress, anxiety and depression, resulting in a noticeable decline in overall mental health,” says Kim Krawec, Manager of FCSS, Town of Cochrane. “We acknowledge the significant toll suicide takes on our community and we remain dedicated to providing comprehensive resources around suicide prevention, awareness and education for everyone in our community.”
In recognition, Cochrane Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) and the Family Resource Network (FRN) are offering a variety of events, workshops, resources and programs designed to educate the community about suicide prevention and mental wellbeing. Learn about a few programs available for Cochrane and area residents:
- Sleeve the Stigma Campaign: In alignment with this year’s theme, youth from Cochrane Rocky View Schools, Family Resource Network (FRN) and BGC have decorated coffee sleeves with messages of hope, encouragement and inspiration, promoting positive mental health. Beginning September 10, the locally designed coffee sleeves will be distributed to customers at four local coffee shops, including Good Earth, Found, and Vine Coffee House in Cochrane as well as Handle-Bar in Bragg Creek.
- Suicide Awareness Lunch & Learn: This workshop addresses the sensitive topic of suicide, explores associated emotions and needs, provides insight into recognizing the signs, offers guidance on supporting someone contemplating suicide and presents additional resources. The workshop will be held online on September 12 and at The Station on September 13 from 12-1pm. Registration required.
- Opioid Awareness & Community-based Naloxone Training: This course covers topics surrounding the ongoing opioid crisis, harm reduction strategies as well as valuable Naloxone training (a drug used to reverse the effects of opioid poisoning). Sessions will be held on September 14 from 10am-12pm in Redwood Meadows and at Family Community and Support Services from 1:30-3:30pm. Registration required.
- Cochrane Applied Suicide Intervention Training (ASIST): This two-day suicide first aid workshop equips attendees with knowledge to assist individuals experiencing thoughts of suicide and helps them develop a plan to ensure immediate safety. Subsidized by the Town of Cochrane Community Helpers Program and facilitated by the Center for Suicide Prevention, this workshop will be offered on November 2-3 from 8:30am – 4:30pm at the FCSS Building.
- Cochranecares.ca: The Cochrane and area community mental health website serves as a comprehensive resource hub, offering local mental health information, resources, and support.
For more information on programs or to register, visit Cochrane.ca/programguide or by calling 403-851-2250.
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