Local mental health organizations are encouraging anyone struggling with mental health to pick up the phone. The Muskoka-Parry Sound branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association has a number of programs and a 24-hour crisis line that is free for everyone to use.
CMHA representative Shane Tabobondung says mental health has a stigma attached to it, and they are working to spread the word that it is okay to reach out for help.
He says when it comes to suicide, the rates are very under-reported and doesn’t have exact numbers on how many people are affected in the area.
However, Tabobondung says suicide attempts are more prevalent in men.
Tabobondung says the CHMA is working to reach out to the community, and to work through the taboo attached to mental health. He says they have a mental health in the workplace program, a suicide awareness program, and addiction services.
More information on all of the local CMHA services is on its website, and the crisis line is always open at 1-800-461-5424.