A new provincial framework aims to give those at risk of suicide the care they need.
Called the Suicide Prevention Framework, it will be used to support healthcare organizations in improving care for those 18 and older who are at risk. It was developed by the Canadian Mental Health Association’s BC Division in partnership with the province.
Parliamentary secretary for mental health and addictions Amna Shah says people dealing with a mental health crisis should not only get compassion, but also person-centered care.
“When someone is experiencing thoughts of suicide, it is especially important that they get timely supports for as long as they need,” said Shah.
The province says the framework will also be used to better detect those at risk of suicide and give suggestions for how to eliminate barriers to care like stigma and discrimination.
This comes as each year sees 615 people die from suicide in BC.
They hope with this framework, it can help save lives across the province.