The newly formed Niagara Region suicide prevention working group is exploring ways to tackle a very delicate issue in our community.
During a meeting on Wednesday, representatives from the Region, Public Health, the City of St. Catharines, Niagara Health, and emergency services acknowledged a greater need for increased awareness of mental health outreach and crisis services.
The group will be following the leadership of the Niagara Suicide Prevention Coalition going forward with another meeting planned for next month.
In the meantime, signs with crisis line information have been put up near the Burgoyne Bridge where two men died this month.
If you, or someone you know is in crisis, call 911.
Pathstone Mental Health is reaching out to the youth of Niagara in crisis, saying crisis workers are available 24/7, 365 days a year by calling 1-800-263-4944.
The Niagara Suicide Prevention Coalition asks adult residents to call 911 if someone is in immediate need, or call a Crisis Outreach and Support Team (COAST) 1-866-550-5205.