RNAO Expands Suicide Prevention Guideline to Include Adolescents
Event summary
- RNAO launched the second edition of its suicide prevention guideline on September 3, 2026, expanding its scope to include adolescents over 10 years old.
- The guideline provides evidence-informed recommendations for identifying, assessing, and caring for individuals at risk of suicide.
- RNAO will host a webinar on September 10, 2026, to discuss the guideline's implementation and key recommendations.
- The guideline was developed by an expert panel of 17 members, including clinical practitioners, researchers, and individuals with lived experience of suicidal thoughts.
The big picture
RNAO's updated guideline addresses a critical gap in suicide prevention, particularly for adolescents, aligning with growing recognition of mental health as a public health priority. The expansion of the guideline's scope reflects a strategic shift towards more inclusive, evidence-based care models. With over 4,750 suicide deaths annually in Canada, the guideline's implementation could significantly enhance health outcomes across diverse populations.
What we're watching
- Adoption Pace
- The pace at which healthcare and social service providers implement the updated guideline will determine its impact on suicide prevention outcomes.
- Policy Influence
- Whether the guideline's recommendations will influence broader public health policies and funding allocations for suicide prevention programs.
- Stakeholder Engagement
- How effectively RNAO engages with people with lived experience and their chosen families in the ongoing evaluation and refinement of the guideline.