The Sarnia-Lambton Suicide Prevention Committee is thrilled motorists are noticing signs with the Suicide Crisis Helpline number at the Blue Water Bridge.
Member Liz Page said the committee proposed the idea to local leadership at the span a few years ago, and they were on board right away.
"There had been some unfortunate incidents where folks had died by suicide, and we were hoping that having a visual cue would be a reminder that there are resources and there are people willing, and able to help in the moment," Page said.
She said the idea had to be approved by the Federal Bridge Corporation.
"The sign is very concise. It basically says if you're in crisis, call 9-8-8. That is a national suicide prevention hotline, and there is somebody on the other end 24/7, 365 days of the year. It's just a very simple, impactful sign," said Page.
"Sometimes when folks are at the height of their crisis, they're not thinking clearly. They're thinking with their emotions and they're in the moment. So having that visual cue, or reminder that there is another option, can sometimes be enough to ground them and have them reach out to someone who can do an intervention and direct them to the appropriate resources."
A photo of the sign started circulating online recently, and Page said the feedback has been good.
"We've definitely heard from folks who have seen the signs and are really encouraged by that messaging," Page said. "It sort of speaks to decreasing the stigma, bringing suicide out of the shadows and using the word suicide instead of whispering it."
Page said the committee has also spoke with local railway crossing supervisors about installing similar signage and was told a provincial initiative may be in the works.
According to the Federal Bridge Corporation, 20 signs (10 in English and 10 in French) were installed in October 2023.
September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. The theme this year is "Creating Hope Through Action." The local suicide prevention committee is partnering with Project Mental Wellness and Talk For Tamara to acknowledge the day this year.
Details about what's planned will be shared closer to the date.
If you or someone you know is struggling, a list of resources available in Sarnia-Lambton to help can be found by clicking here.