In observance of World Suicide Prevention Day, the Halton Suicide Prevention Coalition (HSPC) launched its annual “Garden of Hope” at Milton Public Library’s Beaty Branch.
This symbolic rock garden — featuring painted stones with messages of hope — was designed to raise awareness about suicide prevention and inspire compassion and understanding across the community.
“Hope is such an important part of suicide prevention,” says Melanie McGregor, chair of the Halton Suicide Prevention Coalition.
The Garden of Hope features rocks painted with messages and images of hope, placed in a new location in the community each year. The inaugural 2022 garden was installed at the Oakville Public Library Glen Abbey Branch, while the 2023 garden is located at the Canadian Mental Health Association Halton in Oakville.
Each garden includes signage recognizing World Suicide Prevention Day, with links to resources for those seeking support for themselves or loved ones.
“We want to spread messages of hope throughout the community — you never know who needs that support and encouragement. Hope can be anywhere, and the garden is one more place for it.”
The Garden of Hope launch coincided with the global observance of World Suicide Prevention Day, which this year carried the theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide: Start the Conversation.”
The goal was to shift how people talk about suicide and encourage open discussions that may help prevent future tragedies. Special guest Stacey Laforme, former chief of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, shared his poetry and insights on suicide prevention during the event.
Suicide in Canada: A Crisis Across Communities
Each year, approximately 4,500 people die by suicide in Canada — an average of 12 lives lost per day. Beyond these devastating figures, more than 200 Canadians attempt suicide daily.
These statistics reflect the heavy toll suicide takes on Canadian society, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. For every life lost to suicide, at least seven to 10 loved ones are deeply impacted.
However, certain populations in Canada face disproportionately higher suicide rates. Men and boys are more likely to die by suicide than women, with men accounting for approximately 75 per cent of all suicides.
For women, self-harm is more common, often serving as a risk factor for suicide. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among Canadian youth aged 15 to 34.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated suicidal thoughts in adults, with the number of Canadians reporting such thoughts rising from 2.7 per cent in 2019 to 4.2 per cent in 2021, according to available data.
Immigrants and Suicide in Canada
Recent data from Statistics Canada suggest that immigrants in Canada have lower suicide rates than the Canadian-born population.
However, immigrants diagnosed with mood or anxiety disorders are more vulnerable. Suicidal thoughts were found to be more prevalent among immigrants with these diagnoses, especially youth aged 15 to 24.
The complexities of navigating cultural identity, social isolation, and economic challenges may contribute to mental health struggles among immigrants, making targeted suicide prevention efforts vital for this group.
Indigenous communities in Canada are also at higher risk, particularly among youth. Suicide rates in some First Nations and Métis communities, as well as Inuit regions, are significantly higher than the national average.
The Power of Hope in Prevention
In the face of such overwhelming statistics, organizations like the HSPC focused on spreading hope and support.
“In the Garden of Hope, each painted rock becomes a symbol of survival and resilience. On this World Suicide Prevention Day, we look to create a landscape of understanding, compassion, and support, ensuring no one has to face their struggles alone,” said Sarah Douglas-Murray, CEO and chief librarian at Milton Public Library.
Initiatives like these, alongside local events such as the Garden of Hope, aim to reduce stigma and provide timely intervention.
A Call to Action
The launch coincides with World Suicide Prevention Day, held annually on Sept. 10. This year’s theme, Changing the Narrative on Suicide: Start the Conversation, encourages people to share their experiences and foster understanding, helping those in need realize they are not alone and can reach out for support.
For individuals at risk, knowing that help is available and that others care can make a critical difference. Communities are urged to engage in these conversations, participate in local events, and advocate for increased mental health support and resources.
As Canadians continue to grapple with the long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health, the importance of suicide prevention efforts has never been clearer.
From raising awareness to fostering understanding and support, the collective aim remains to ensure that fewer people feel they must face their struggles alone.
For those struggling with suicidal thoughts, support is available 24-7 through the 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline. Other resources include the Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868) and the Hope for Wellness Helpline, which provide crucial support to vulnerable groups, including youth and Indigenous peoples.
For more information on suicide prevention and how to get involved, visit www.haltonspc.ca.