Statement from Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee on World Suicide Prevention Day

Press Release

September 10, 2025

Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

“Today, we observe World Suicide Prevention Day. This day is an opportunity to raise awareness and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting mental health and life promotion across the territory.

“Suicide affects individuals, families and communities in the Yukon. We honour those who we have lost and stand with those who are coping with grief or supporting loved ones through challenging times.

“This year’s theme, Changing the Narrative on Suicide, encourages all of us to promote connection, understanding and care. We know that prevention begins with reaching out, listening without judgment and fostering a sense of belonging.

“There are supports available in the Yukon:

• People can call or text 9‑8‑8, Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24 hours a day in English and French.
• For local support, people can contact the Canadian Mental Health Association Reach Out Support Line at 1‑844‑533‑3030.
• Indigenous Peoples can access the Hope for Wellness Helpline at 1‑855‑242‑3310.
• Young people can connect with Kids Help Phone at 1‑800‑668‑6868 or by texting CONNECT to 686868.
• Rapid Access Counselling through Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services is available by appointment by calling 867‑456‑3838, toll‑free 1‑866‑456‑3838.
• Francophone Yukoners can access Tel-Aide Outaouais (TAO), a confidential French-language support line, by calling 1‑800‑567‑9699.
• People can visit substanceuseservices.ca for more information on local supports and services.

“I also encourage community members to participate in accessible, skills-based training such as ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) at Yukon University and to support locally grounded life promotion initiatives, including those incorporating Indigenous knowledge and practices.

“On this day, the Government of Yukon reaffirms its dedication to building communities that support awareness, healing and resilience. Through continuing to promote connection and offering timely help, we are all part of creating a stronger and caring Yukon.”

Media contact

Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca

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