National Aboriginal Youth Suicide Prevention Strategy

Youth suicide is a Canada‐wide issue that is of particular urgency for Aboriginal people. While there is much variation among First Nations communities, overall suicide rates are 5 to 7 times the rate for Canadian youth overall: 126 per 100,000 for First Nations male youth aged 15‐24, compared to 24 per 100,000 for Canadian male youth, and 35 per 100,000 for First Nations female youth, compared to 5 per 100,000 for Canadian female youth. Suicide rates among Inuit are the highest in Canada, at eleven times the national average.

Individual mental health and wellness are key factors against becoming suicidal. As such, suicide prevention is addressed in the context of individual, family, and community health. As a program, the NAYSPS targets resources that support a range of community‐based solutions and activities that contribute to improved mental health and wellness among Aboriginal youth, families, and communities. Over time, these efforts will result in a reduction of Aboriginal youth suicide across Canada.

Youth Suicide Prevention Conference Report