Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario

Backgrounder

  • Suicide remains a leading cause of death for men, women and young people.
  • Suicide is a complex phenomenon that is influenced by physical (including genetic), psychological, spiritual, social, economic, historical, political, cultural and environmental factors.
  • According to the Mood Disorders Society of Canada, suicide accounts for 24% of all deaths among Canadians ages 15 to 24 years, 16% of all deaths for the age group of 25 to 44 years, and the age range with the highest number of suicides is the age group of 25 to 44 years.
  • A number of groups have been identified as being at elevated risk for suicidal behaviour including youth, elderly, Aboriginal Peoples, gay/lesbian populations, and those who are incarcerated.
Addiction and Mental Health
Assessment and Care of Adults at Risk for Suicidal Ideation and Behaviour
Background Information