Research and Statistics

Suicide in Canada

Today in Canada 12 people will end their lives by suicide.

For each death by suicide, the World Health Organization estimates 10 people are deeply affected. In Canada, 12 deaths by suicide will leave up to 120 people in a state of bereavement. Beyond these people, up to 120 additional people will also affected by the death. 

To be certain, suicide is a critical public health issue in Canada.  Suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth and young adults (15-34 years old).

Based on data from the Public Health Agency of Canada, 12% of Canadians have thought about suicide in their lifetime and 3.1% have attempted suicide in their lifetime.

Males are three times more likely to die by suicide than females, with higher rates prevailing as a consistent trend.

Although men are more likely to die by suicide, females are three times more likely to attempt to end their lives. In addition, women are hospitalized 1.5 times more often than males for suicide-related behaviors. This discrepancy may be due to the fact that females tend to use less immediately lethal methods.

pdf
Statistics – Suicide in Canada Infographic

Public Health Agency of Canada analysis of Statistics Canada Vital Statistics Death Database and Canadian Institute for Health Information Hospital Morbidity Database

pdf
Suicide worldwide in 2019 – Global Health Estimates

Suicide worldwide in 2019 - Global Health Estimates

pdf
Research – “I Can’t Crack the Code”

What Suicide Notes Teach Us about Experiences with Mental Illness and Mental Health Care July…

pdf
Statistics – Depression and suicidal ideation among Canadians aged 15 to 24

15 to 24 year-olds had the highest rates of mood and anxiety disorders of all age groups.