World Suicide Prevention Day shines a light on available support services in Medicine Hat

Sep 10, 2026 | 4:30 PM

As World Suicide Prevention Day takes place on Thursday, Sept. 10, suicide prevention and access to support remain among the services offered by Medicine Hat Family Service, which offers counselling, prevention programs and support for those affected by suicide.

Medicine Hat Family Service executive director Celina Symmonds said the day provides a chance to talk more openly about suicide and remind people that support is available.

“Anytime we have an opportunity to talk about suicide prevention, it allows us to open a door and save a life,” Symmonds said.

She says those conversations are important not only for people who may be struggling, but also for families and friends who have lost someone to suicide.

“It’s really important to recognize that there are also folks who are facing having lost people to suicide,” Symmonds said.

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Medicine Hat Family Service offers individual counselling, as well as its Skills for Safer Living program for people and families affected by suicide.

The organization also offers suicide prevention programming for schools, businesses and community organizations.

The 1.5-hour program is designed to help people feel more comfortable recognizing when someone may be struggling and intervening when there are concerns.

The program is funded through the Canadian Mental Health Association, in partnership with the Alberta government.

Symmonds said the local programming gives people in Medicine Hat and the area access to suicide prevention resources within their own community.

The annual day of awareness highlights the far-reaching impacts of suicide, which, according to Recovery Alberta, claims more than 720,000 lives globally each year.

People seeking support can contact 211 or 811 in the province, or Medicine Hat Family Service at 403-504-8026.

For immediate crisis support, individuals can call or text 988, the Suicide Crisis Helpline; for dangerous situations, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

by Jett Schwaier

World Suicide Prevention Day shines a light on available support services in Medicine Hat

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