Domestic violence is at epidemic levels in Alberta with 1 in 3 individuals experiencing violence in their lifetime.  The impact of domestic violence knows no bounds. Incidents of domestic violence exist across rural and urban areas, within all cultural and faith communities, amongst university educated professionals with a roof over their heads and those who don’t know where their next safe place to sleep will be. 

All Albertans are impacted by domestic violence in our communities, this is an issue that is too big to be ignored.

It’s time to Get Real.

Suicide rates in Canada have climbed to over 30 per cent since 2015. Relationship conflict and concurrent domestic violence is a factor in this rate. World Suicide Prevention Day is on September 10^{th –} take the time to survey the people around you and do your part to support.

If you know someone who is experiencing thoughts of suicide, loneliness, hopelessness or is potentially in a situation of domestic violence, try utilizing some of these tools and resources to support them:

1. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings in a safe space. Remember, it can be difficult to be vulnerable, but if you listen and are supportive, people are likely to open up.
2. Try to work through the topic with them by listening and giving comments that are positive in nature. Be careful not to judge or place blame on their situation or thoughts.
3. Connect them with some of the following resources: