State of local emergency declared following multiple suicides in Mikisew Cree First Nation

Mikisew Cree First Nation Logo (Photo Submitted)

Mikisew Cree First Nation declared a state of local emergency following a strong suicide and suicide attempts amongst community members.

The Mikisew Cree First Nation says immediate medical intervention is needed in Fort Chipewyan, Alta. to address a mounting mental health crisis among members. Suicides and suicide attempts have been increasing in the remote community accessible only by plane, boat or ice road, about 280 kilometres north of Fort McMurray, the MCFN said in a statement Tuesday.  If additional mental health resources don’t arrive soon, community leaders fear the trend will have a tragic ripple effect among members.

In a video posted to social media, Chief Billy-Joe Tuccaro said the community has called on the federal and provincial governments, including Alberta Health Services and Indigenous Services Canada, to provide immediate support and long-term, sustainable funding for community mental health supports.

If you or someone you know is struggling, here’s where to get help:

• Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566 (phone) | 45645 (text between 4 p.m. and midnight ET).
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 (phone), live chat counselling on the website.
• Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Find a 24-hour crisis centre.
• This guide from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health outlines how to talk about suicide with someone you’re worried about.