GN focused on prevention in reaffirming commitment to addressing suicide crisis in Nunavut

Press Release

May 22, 2025

Iqaluit, Nunavut (May 22, 2025) – The Government of Nunavut (GN) and its partners will meet in the coming weeks to review Inuusivut Anninaqtuq, the Nunavut Suicide Prevention Action Plan, reaffirming the GN’s commitment to combating the ongoing suicide crisis.

Launched in 2024, Inuusivut Anninaqtuq represents a unified effort by the Government of Nunavut, Inuit organizations, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc, the RCMP, non-governmental organizations and local communities. Together, the partners work to deliver community-driven supports and resources that reflect Inuit societal values and lived experiences.

“The weight of the lives lost in our communities impacts everyone in Nunavut, especially the families and friends of those lost to suicide,” said Premier P.J. Akeeagok. “The Inuusivut Anninaqtuq Action Plan relies on partnerships to produce meaningful change. It will take all of us working together and pooling our collective resources and expertise to confront the challenges we face in protecting the lives of Nunavummiut. Our aim is to deliver a message of hope and offer help for those struggling.”

“I acknowledge that suicide has touched every Nunavummiuq,” said Minister of Health John Main. “We are committed to implementing effective, community-led solutions to address these challenges head-on. Our focus remains on building resilient communities and fostering strong, supportive relationships to create a future of hope for everyone.”

The Inuusivut Anninaqtuq Action Plan adopts a whole-of-Nunavut approach – one that prioritizes accountability, responsiveness to emerging needs, and alignment with Inuit societal values. At its core, the plan supports and empowers communities to lead the way in creating sustainable mental health resources and suicide prevention initiatives.

The Government of Nunavut and its partners remain steadfast in their commitment to building a healthy, hopeful future for all Nunavummiut. To further support its commitment to mental health and suicide prevention, the Government of Nunavut has implemented several key programs, including:

• Adding 41 mental health paraprofessionals: these individuals are stationed throughout the territory, providing crucial care and support to individuals and communities, while encouraging community engagement in mental wellness initiatives.
• Increasing mental wellness resources in schools: enhanced resources and supports have been placed in schools to help students and staff better address mental health challenges and foster resilience from a young age.
• Nunavut Child Abuse and Neglect Response Agreement: this initiative strengthens the territory’s capacity to protect vulnerable children and ensure effective intervention for those facing abuse or neglect.
• Atii Angutiit program: focused on men’s wellness, this program works to improve community connections and provide resources for men and adolescent youth, addressing a historically under-resourced area of mental health.
• Igluliuqatigiingniq Nunavut 3000 housing initiative: this program is designed to address housing challenges, which can significantly impact mental health, by increasing the availability of safe, stable housing across Nunavut.
• Healing by Talking: a virtual counselling service connecting Nunavummiut to mental health professionals, providing essential support for individuals in remote areas where access to in-person counselling is limited.

These initiatives are integral to the Inuusivut Anninaqtuq Action Plan’s comprehensive approach to preventing suicide, supporting individuals and building healthier, more resilient communities across Nunavut.

Contact

Charmaine Deogracias
Manager of Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5712
cdeogracias@gov.nu.ca

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