In advance of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2023, Carlton Trail College has bolstered its support services with the official launch of its Suicide Prevention, Intervention and Postvention Toolkit.
The Toolkit supports the College’s suicide prevention strategy aimed at supporting those experiencing thoughts of suicide, those wanting to support someone experiencing thoughts of suicide, and those impacted by a suicide loss. This document was the result of Healthy Campus Saskatchewan’s collaborative work, which includes 19 post-secondary institutions in the province. It has been adapted to reflect Carlton Trail College’s learning region.
“There has been an undeniable rise in mental health concerns amongst students,” says Rachel Trann, Adult Basic Education and Student Services Director at Carlton Trail College. “By adapting the document to reflect information and resources available in our region, as well as increasing the ability of staff to recognize and appropriately connect to others experiencing thoughts of suicide, our College is better equipped to support individuals who may be struggling.”
The Spring 2023 Canadian Campus Wellbeing Survey found that 12% of students reported seriously contemplating suicide over the last 12 months. Carlton Trail College participated in this national survey.
“We all have a shared responsibility to foster a supportive campus culture – simply asking ‘Are you OK?’ can really make a difference,” Trann adds.
Carton Trail College is grateful for the work of Healthy Campus Saskatchewan, as well as the University of Saskatchewan, who took a lead role in the development of this initiative.
The Toolkit can be found in the College’s online resources.