Many faces, many places is the the theme for World Suicide Prevention Day on Sept. 10.

It's a time for people and communities to come together to show support towards suicide prevention and those whose lives have been affected by it, said Julia Datoff, program director at Crisis Centre for Northern BC.

"It's the time when all Canadians are encouraged to learn about suicide, the warning signs and what to do," Datoff said.

B.C. statistics show there are about 500 suicides annually in B.C..

"More people die by their own hands in B.C. than in motor vehicle accidents. It is the second leading cause of death among B.C. youth aged 15 to 24 after motor vehicle fatalities, and there are typically three to four male suicides each year for each female suicide," Datoff added.

Statistics also say that 80 per cent of those who die by suicide are clinically depressed, and probably could have been helped.

Tim Wall, executive director of Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention, said, "Most people who die by suicide experience intense feelings of sadness, emotional pain and hopelessness. But suicide is the most preventable type of death."

He added with compassion, understanding and appropriate resources, most can recover and experience a meaningful life.

Information about suicide is available at the Crisis Centre, 1600 Third Ave., fifth floor or call 250-564-5736.

A good way to make a difference in people's lives and enhance your own is to become a volunteer at the Crisis Centre.

Volunteers require 60 hours of training including two full week ends. The next training session is set for Oct. 15, 16 and 17 and Oct. 22, 23 and 24.

Apply at the centre or call program Datoff at 250-564-5736 or e-mail: julia_pgcrisiscen...@telus.net.

The training itself has proven to be worth its weight in gold with many volunteers using it to find employment, having better communication with friends and family -- especially teenagers, and using it to enter other careers.

btr...@pgcitizen.ca