Funding community-based programs can reduce male suicide

The suicide rate for men in Canada is three to four times higher than women. This rate increases even more in certain subgroups such as gay men, indigenous men or veterans. Evidence suggests that accessible, community-based programs that target these vulnerable groups are beneficial. These initiatives aim to open up the conversation about mental health and reduce stigma while providing therapeutic opportunities. Britney Dennison, an advisor with University of British Columbia’s Mens’ Health Research Group says programs like these help people like Jason speak out about his struggle with mental health. John Oliffe is an expert advisor with EvidenceNetwork.ca, a Professor at the School of Nursing at the University of British Columbia. Founder and lead investigator of UBC’s Men’s Health Research program Britney Dennison is a research advisor at Men’s Health Research and is the deputy director of the Global Reporting Centre. She is an award-winning journalist with by lines in the Toronto Star, the Tree, CTV and Al Jazeera.