The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is

“Changing the Narrative on Suicide”.

• What does this mean? Moving from a culture of silence and misunderstanding to openness, empathy and support.

• How do we do this? Create opportunity for individuals, communities, organizations and governments to engage in open and honest conversations about suicide and suicide behavior.

• Why will this help? Break down barriers, raise awareness and creating a culture of understanding and support.

In honor of World Suicide Prevention Day, Southern Health-Santé Sud’s Mental Health & Addictions program is inviting you to a Community “Living Room Conversation”.

What is a Living Room Conversation?

Living Room Conversations offer a simple, sociable, and structured way to practice communicating across differences while building understanding and relationships. Typically, 4-6 people meet in person or by video call for about 90 minutes to listen to and be heard by others on one of nearly 100 topics. Rather than debating or convincing others, everyone takes turns talking to share, learn, and be curious.

Anyone can host with the use of developed Conversation Guides. There are Conversation Agreements like "Listen and Be Curious" and "Suspend Judgement" that create the framework for diving into the questions. The questions are designed to draw out personal experiences rather than opinions around the topic.

What does this look like as a Community event?

Conference style approach: Involving small group conversations with the use of a Conversation Guide.

Selected Topic: The topic chosen for World Suicide Prevention Day provides an opportunity for individuals to share and listen about experiences with mental health and suicide.

Goals: We hope individuals walk away with an increased understanding and compassion for others’ experiences of suicide and mental health challenges, and reduce stigma about reaching out for help.

For more information or to register, please contact Lindsay Hainsworth, Mental Health & Addictions Program - Prevention & Promotion at lhainsworth@southernhealth.ca.