Today is World Suicide Prevention Day and many of us have been touched in one way or another by someone taking their own life.

In fact it’s estimated that between 50-60% of people know someone personally that has killed themselves.

Dr Rebecca Sanford, a professor and lecturer at TRU, was on the NL Morning News and said there are three main factors that most suicidal people experience. “In order for someone to take their life they have to be kind of fearless in the face of death.”

“Often times we think that suicide is a very cowardly act but actually the actions require to kind of overtake that self preservation drive. It requires a lot of strength.”

Dr Sanford added “Lack of belonging is one and feeling like a burden on people that they care about the most is another. Those are two separate but interrelated factors that come up.”

Dr Sanford say The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention’s website is good source of information.

If you or anybody you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact a mental health care professional or call 911.