We know the community is hurting.
That's the word from Niagara Health as St.Catharines residents continue to come to terms with two tragic deaths this past week in the city.
It was last Thursday night 19 year old Tanner Unger died as the result of suicide at the Burgoyne Bridge and then Wednesday morning a 43 year old St.Catharines man also died by jumping off the bridge onto the 406 below.
Linda Boich, Niagara Health Executive Vice President says they know the community is hurting and that many people are justifiably concerned about the number of suicides and attempted suicides in our region.
She says they share those concerns.
Boich says senior members of the Niagara Health mental healthcare team are planning to participate in next week’s meeting of the Niagara Suicide Prevention Coalition.
She is reminding community members that if they or someone they know is in distress and in need of immediate help, they should seek emergency care or call 911 immediately.
Niagara’s Mental Health and Addictions Access Line is also available 24/7. Call 1-866-550-5205 or visit http://accesslineniagara.com
Boich says the Coalition’s decision to install signage that offers mental health crisis support information is a positive step forward and anything that will interrupt a pattern of thought, like a sign, is helpful.
Niagara Health is conducting a review of Unger's care in hospital since it's alleged that he left the hospital and went to the bridge.
A candlelight vigil is being planned at the bridge on Sunday night at 7pm.
610 CKTB is also hosting a moment of silence following by a special broadcast "Bridge of Hope" from 7-7:30pm.