Nunavut marks World Suicide Prevention Day

Events are being held around the world today to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.

For organizers in Nunavut, its a chance to shed light on an ongoing crisis.

"We're trying to work with an almost impossible situation," says TerryAudla, president of InuitTapiriitKanatami, one of several organizations trying to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around talking about suicide in Nunavut.

The suicide rate among Nunavut Inuit is 13 times that of the rest of Canada. The territorys Embrace Life Council says there have been 18 suicides in the territory already this year. This from a population of just 36,000.

In all, more than 450 people have taken their own lives since Nunavut was created 15 years ago.

Audla says more resources and more support for caregivers is greatly needed.

"So that the quality of life for Inuitis raised at least, at the very least, on par with the rest of Canada."

In Iqaluit, the Embrace Life Council organized a candlelight vigil last night.

Sandy Kownak, the organizations president, says expanding cultural and skills-based services is crucial to reducing the rate of suicide.

"That's what we need to invest in is that lack of capacity for them to build their identity within their culture."

Events today

In Ottawa, the eighth annual celebrate life event is being held on Parliament Hill. Events are also being planning in several Nunavut communities.

Cambridge Bay will host a 5-kilometre walk around the hamlet, followed by a community barbecue. The communitys mental health facility is also setting up stationary bikes for its residents. Young people can create posters on the theme of suicide prevention, to be judged by Alaskan reality star, Ariel Tweto, during a planned visit Sept. 27.

Arviat will also host a walk, followed by a celebration at the community hall and a Piliriqatigiinniq cake decorating contest.

Pond Inlet will host a community walk followed by outdoor games and refreshments at the community hall.

For more information on events around the territory, contact the Embrace LIfe Council.