REGINA — The Ministry of Health has chosen Family Service Saskatchewan to provide a provincial suicide loss support program, also known as suicide postvention services.
The program will support the immediate psychological needs of people affected by the loss of someone who died by suicide or survived with significant injury or trauma. These suicide loss supports are an important prevention effort aimed at reducing the risk of future suicides due to unresolved grief or trauma, according to a ministry press release.
The Rapid Access Counselling for Suicide Loss Program is expected to be available in early 2024. Services will be delivered in-person available in communities to be determined, virtually and over the phone.
As part of this provincial program, Family Service Saskatchewan will provide a range of services, including referrals, counselling, navigation support, education and awareness for families and communities. Family Service Saskatchewan will also develop a referral network that individuals, families, health providers, police and other first responders can direct families and friends to immediately following a suicide.
"As we launch this new program, we recognize the profound impact that suicide has on families and communities," Family Service Saskatchewan Chair Janine Baumann said.
"We are committed to providing effective and responsive services to those impacted by suicide loss. Our goal is to offer easy-to-access and rapid support at times when families and loved ones may need it the most."
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