Alberta's Suicide Rate Jumps Significantly In First Half Of 2015

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 08 Dec, 2015 11:14 AM

CALGARY — Alberta’s suicide rate has spiked for the first time in years.

Mara Grunau with the Centre for Suicide Prevention says the numbers jumped 30 per cent in the first half of 2015.

She says that's an anomaly because the rate has been fairly steady for a long time.

The centre is calling for a multi-pronged, co-ordinated approach across the province to recognize the warning signs of suicide, and help those who are desperate.

Grunau commends the City of Edmonton for putting up barriers on the High Level Bridge, "which was a jumping hot-spot for people."

Grunau added that open and easy access to mental health care is critical to battle the problem.

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