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Suicide policy in Canada: lessons from history
Rae Spiwak1, Brenda Elias, James M Bolton
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB.
Summary
Canada lacks a national suicide prevention strategy despite evolving societal views on suicide as a public health issue. This review examines historical context, policy, and potential clinician roles in prevention.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Health Policy
Background:
- Suicide in Canada has shifted from a criminal act to a public health concern requiring culturally sensitive management.
- Societal attitudes and legal interpretations of suicide have evolved globally and within Canada.
Observation:
- Canada is unique among industrialized nations for not having a national suicide prevention strategy.
- Numerous proposals for suicide policy development exist, but a cohesive national strategy is absent.
Findings:
- The article critically reviews the history of suicide in Canada.
- It appraises current Canadian suicide prevention policies and significant governmental/political milestones impacting policy.
- Current efforts toward a national suicide prevention strategy are discussed.
Implications:
- Highlights the urgent need for a national suicide prevention strategy in Canada.
- Identifies potential roles for clinicians in suicide prevention efforts.
- Emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive approaches in suicide management.
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