In yellow shoes

Please note: this content may be disturbing to some readers.

In Canada, the suicide rate is 15 per 100,000 people. According to Statistics Canada, in 2009, suicide was the second leading cause of death for males between the ages of 15 and 44 and for females between the ages of 15 and 24.

According to the Toronto Police Department, in 2011, Toronto police officers responded to more than 19,000 calls to provide service to emotionally disturbed persons. Most of the time, officers are successful in preventing tragedies, as only 0.0017 percent of all police and community contacts with people, emotionally disturbed or not, resulted in serious injury or death this year.

To combat mental health issues, the Ontario government has passed a series of laws to establish comprehensive mental health care and legislation. These laws provide a guideline for hospitals, physicians, and psychiatrists on the admission and treatments of patients. They also inform patients of their rights and build continuous community support. The Toronto Distress Centre offers a 24/7 Distress and Crisis help line provide emotional support. The Toronto branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association provides services such as intensive, specialized support services and help with returning to the work force.

Yellow is the colour of the ribbons of the Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program.