First Nation declares state of emergency over rash of suicides

Thursday, April 18, 2013  

The Neskantaga First Nation in Ontario has declared a state of emergency after seeing two suicides within the last two weeks.

Over the past year alone, seven people have committed suicide, CBC News reported. Another 20 have attempted suicide.

"We have hardly anybody who is not affected in the community. The community situation right now is in a state of shock," Chief Peter Moonias told the Canadian Press.

Moonias estimated that half of the adults on the reserve are addicted to painkillers. He said the Canadian government needs to provide more resources to deal with addiction and mental health issues.

Get the Story:
Suicide crisis prompts remote First Nation to declare state of emergency (CP 4/17)
Suicides prompt First Nation to declare state of emergency (CBC News 4/17)