Nunavut declares suicide to be a crisis — again

The government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) have once again declared suicide to be a crisis in the territory, echoing a similar move made a decade ago. This declaration comes as one of the 32 recommendations from a coroner’s inquest conducted in April, which investigated the circumstances surrounding the death of George Arlooktoo, a 28-year-old who died by suicide during a confrontation with RCMP officers in Kimmirut six years ago. The inquest jury determined that Arlooktoo died on February 9, 2019, from multiple stab wounds to his neck.

John Main, Nunavut’s health minister, emphasized the urgency of refocusing the government’s efforts on the territory’s fourth suicide prevention plan. He stressed that the territory is still in a crisis and that immediate action is necessary to address the high rate of suicides in Nunavut. In 2024 alone, 32 people died by suicide in the territory, maintaining the average over the past decade and solidifying Nunavut’s position with the highest rate of deaths by suicide in the country.

NTI vice-president Paul Irngaut acknowledged the ongoing challenges despite their best efforts in suicide prevention. He underscored the importance of looking towards the future and continuing to work towards reducing the number of suicides in the territory.

While former premier Peter Taptuna’s government had declared suicide a crisis back in October 2015, the current government has refrained from declaring a public health emergency. Declaring a public health emergency under the territory’s public health act would grant the chief public health officer special powers to mobilize resources and support from the federal government. However, the decision not to declare an emergency was made based on the belief that a multi-faceted approach is required to effectively address the issue of suicide prevention.

MLA Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster has been advocating for an emergency declaration, citing the need for additional resources to fully implement the suicide prevention action plan. Brewster emphasized the importance of changing the default response to individuals in crisis from sending the police to providing appropriate mental health support. She highlighted the need for suicide prevention training across Nunavut’s communities to empower community members to support each other through challenging times.

Moving forward, Main plans to convene a meeting with partners to discuss the advancement of the suicide prevention strategy and determine where funding and resources should be directed. While the crisis declaration may not have legal implications, Main emphasized the importance of holding the government accountable through actions, such as increasing mental health staff, providing shelters for vulnerable populations, and enhancing services for children in need of social support.

In conclusion, the renewed declaration of suicide as a crisis in Nunavut underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the territory. By focusing on a comprehensive and collaborative approach to suicide prevention, stakeholders aim to address the root causes of suicide and provide meaningful support to those in need. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources are available to provide assistance and support.

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