Life Promotion is about “reducing suicide and suicidal behaviour among First Nations youth by ‘leading with the language of life’ rather than relying on deficit-centred language or risk factor-based approaches.” Further, Life Promotion “offers young people a strong sense of meaning, purpose, belonging, and hope based on a strong cultural foundation.”
(source: Wise Practices)
Life Promotion is grounded in natural law and has arisen from and reflects the wisdom and circle of Indigenous traditional knowledge. Further, it introduces us to the Mental Wellness Continuum and the centre of this model refers to the interconnection between mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional behaviour—purpose, hope, meaning, and belonging. A balance between all of these elements leads to optimal mental wellness.
Life Promotion and Suicide Prevention complement each other to provide tools to help one attain good mental health while also providing a framework to meet the needs of those who are experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
For more information, please visit these websites:
Resources from wemattercampaign.org for Indigenous youth
Suicide Prevention Flyer and Tear Sheet
Printable pdf to promote suicide prevention and bereavement resources.
Suicide Prevention & Life Promotion Initiatives
CASP has put together a resource list of Suicide Prevention and Life Promotion initiatives across…
The Promoting Life Together Collaborative
Sharing the Story of the Promoting Life Together Collaborative
CASP Urges Canadian Government to Ensure all Indigenous Peoples Have Human Rights Met
CASP calls upon the Government of Canada to act on their pledge
Vocabulary – How to Talk about Suicide
Engage in dialogue with compassion and curiosity that can promote understanding and connection
