Arctic States Join Forces for Suicide Prevention

The Arctic Sounder

Arctic states are collaborating on efforts to prevent suicide in northern indigenous communities. The Arctic Council has brought together groups from across the region to discuss the RISING SUN initiative. RISING SUN (Reducing the Incidence of Suicide in Indigenous Groups—Strengths United through Networks) aims to establish a standardized method of evaluating suicide prevention activities across Arctic states to help local communities more effectively identify needs, implement interventions, and monitor progress. Group representatives participating in recent talks emphasized the importance of involving indigenous communities and drawing on local knowledge. Canadian Institutes of Health Research President Dr. Alain Beaudet said in a statement, “I was impressed by the commitment made by key organizations in finding concrete solutions that are both community-based and that effectively integrate Inuit knowledge and indigenous [perspective].”

Spark Extra! Learn more about RISING SUN.