Changing the Narrative
September is Suicide Prevention Month; a time to reflect, raise awareness, and most importantly, change the way we talk about suicide. At Baby It's Cold Outside, we believe that every life matters, and every story deserves to be heard. This month, we’re joining the national movement to rewrite the narrative around suicide: from silence to support, from stigma to strength.
Suicide is not a choice made lightly. It’s often the result of overwhelming emotional pain, mental illness, trauma, or isolation. When we shift the conversation from judgment to understanding, we create space for healing. We make it safer for people to speak up, seek help, and know they’re not alone.
Changing the language we use, like saying “died by suicide” instead of “committed suicide,” removes blame and opens the door to empathy. Talking openly about mental health normalizes the experience and helps others feel seen.
Help Is Always Available: The 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is just three digits away. The 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline is available 24/7, in English and French, across Canada. You can call or text 9-8-8 to connect with a trained responder who will listen with compassion and without judgment.
Whether you're in crisis, unsure if you need help, or worried about someone else, 9-8-8 is a safe space to talk.
Resources for Support
Here are some trusted organizations offering support, education, and tools:
CAMH Suicide Prevention Resources: Evidence-based information, myths vs. facts, and the Hope app for mobile support
Canada.ca Suicide Prevention: Federal resources, risk factors, and mental health services for Indigenous peoples, veterans, and more
Canadian Mental Health Association: a nationwide organization that promotes mental health and supports people recovering from mental illness.
Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: a pan-Canadian registered charity at the forefront of suicide prevention, intervention, postvention, and life promotion initiatives for more than 40 years.
Local distress centres: Many communities have crisis lines and walk-in services. Search online or ask your local health authority.
Being a Good Neighbour: How to Check In
At Baby It's Cold Outside, we know that community is everything. Being a good neighbour means showing up: not just when it’s convenient, but when it’s needed most.
Here’s how you can help:
Ask genuinely: “How are you doing, really?” and listen without rushing to fix
Notice changes: Withdrawal, irritability, or fatigue might be signs someone’s struggling
Offer presence: A walk, a coffee, or just sitting together can mean the world
Share resources: Let them know about 9-8-8 or offer to help them reach out
Follow-up: One check-in is good. Ongoing connection is better
Sometimes, the smallest gesture: a text, a knock on the door, a warm meal, can be the lifeline someone needs.
By changing the narrative, we change lives. We show that suicide is preventable, that mental health matters, and that no one has to suffer in silence. This September, Baby It's Cold Outside invites you to be louder than stigma. Kinder than silence. Braver than fear.
Let’s be the reason someone holds on.
