The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide".

• What does this mean? Moving from a culture of silence and misunderstanding to openness, empathy and support. 
• How do we do this? Create opportunity for individuals, communities, organizations and governments to engage in open and honest conversations about suicide and suicide behavior. 
• Why will this help? Break down barriers, raise awareness and creating a culture of understanding and support. 

In honor of World Suicide Prevention Day, Southern Health-Santé Sud’s Mental Health & Addictions program is inviting you to host a “Living Room Conversation” on September 10, 2024. 

• Living Room Conversations involve a group of 4-6 people gathering in a private space and using a structured conversation guide to help people, with different viewpoints and experiences, build understanding on a specific topic. It is not a debate and the goal is not to change one another’s opinion. 
• You don’t require a trained facilitator. There are Conversation Agreements like “Listen and Be Curious” and “Show Respect and Suspend Judgement” that create the framework for diving into the questions. The questions are designed to draw out our personal experiences rather than opinions around the topic.
• The Conversation Guide chosen for World Suicide Prevention Day is to provide individuals with the opportunity to learn more about the experience’s others have around mental health, build a sense of community and “Start the Conversation”

If your organization is interested in hosting a Living Room Conversation, please contact Lindsay Hainsworth, Mental Health & Addictions program - Prevention & Promotion via email for more information.

Hosts will receive:

• Hosting Toolkit
• Resource list of mental health services specific to your area
• First 5 organizations to register will receive at $25.00 gift card to use for snacks/refreshments for their Living Room Conversation
• Grand Prize – each participant will be entered into a grand prize draw

Start the conversation today. Every chat, no matter how small, builds a more supportive and understanding society. Together, we can make a difference and prioritize suicide prevention, ensuring everyone gets the help they need. #WorldSuicidePreventionDay #StartTheConversation – Canadian Association For Suicide Prevention