The member suicide prevention centres (SPC) of the RCPSQ are community-based organizations specializing in suicide prevention. They are present in multiple regions across Quebec.
Thanks to their understanding of local realities, they have developed a wide range of services tailored to the many dimensions issues related to suicide.
In every region of Quebec, suicide prevention support is available at all times. Crisis lines are confidential and serve people in distress, their loved ones, bereaved individuals, professionals, and anyone concerned about suicide.
Many SPC have a local phone line, and some also respond to the provincial line 1-866-APPELLE (1-866-277-3553). To find the contact information for your local SPC, consult the Directory section.)
Most of our members offer intervention services to help people in distress reconnect with their reasons to live and take actions to promote recovery.
Support from loved ones plays a crucial role in helping person who considers suicide through a crisis and beginning recovery. To assist them in this delicate role, some SPC offer services specifically designed to meet their needs.
These services help loved ones better understand the situation, know what to say and do, recognize and respect their own limits, express concerns and emotions, while contributing to the safety of the person in distress.
Bereavement after a suicide is often accompanied by feelings of guilt, anger, or confusion. To support affected individuals, tailored services are available in most regions to help recognize and normalize emotions, guide them through the grieving process, and prevent further distress.
A death by suicide creates a ripple effect that often extends beyond the immediate family. The communities frequented by the person—such as workplaces, schools, care centres, sports teams, or community organizations—can also be affected.
Postvention describes the interventions implemented after a suicide to support those impacted. Its goal is to reduce distress, prevent contagion, strengthen community resilience, and facilitate a return to normalcy.
Rapid intervention helps limit the negative effects of a suicide. CPS that offer postvention services can assist affected environments in establishing emergency measures or developing a postvention protocol. Like an evacuation plan, this preparation enables effective action in a crisis.
A gatekeeper is an adult present in their community through work, volunteering, or attentive listening, who may come into contact with individuals who considers suicide. They perform this role voluntarily, with a desire to help.
The “Gatekeeper” training, developed by the Quebec Suicide Prevention Association and offered by several SPC across Quebec, equips sentinels to identify distress, establish trust, and refer people to available resources.
Adapted versions are available for the agricultural sector and for older adults.
To learn more, become a gatekeeper, or set up a network in your community, contact your local suicide prevention centre.
This training develops skills to assess the risk of suicidal behavior while fostering hope, exploring danger criteria, and applying necessary safety measures. It is intended for professionals responsible for evaluating the risk of suicidal actions in individuals aged 14 and older.
Other training sessions are also offered at certain SPC. To learn about offerings near you, contact your local SPC.
SPC also aim to raise public awareness and break the taboos surrounding suicide. They organize various activities during key events such as World Suicide Prevention Day and National Suicide Prevention Week.
To stay informed about these initiatives, consult your local SPC website or follow the RCPSQ’s Facebook and LinkedIn pages.
The RCPSQ is an independent community organization whose mission is to bring together, represent, and support the member SPC across the province that work with individuals or groups dealing with suicide-related issues.
Many SPC have a local phone line, and some are also responsible for the provincial 24/7 suicide prevention line at 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553).
To contact the SPC in your region directly or to learn about the services they offer, please consult the directory below.
Please note that the RCPSQ does not have information on services offered by non-member SPC.
Each year, suicide prevention centres (SPC) support thousands of people across the province.
Rooted in their communities, they play a crucial role in preventing suicide, supporting individuals in distress, and assisting affected environments.
Your support makes all the difference. By contributing to the cause, whether through a donation or by raising awareness about suicide prevention in your circle, you help nurture hope for those who need it. Every action counts and brings us closer to a better future.
Knowledge development and support are essential for better understanding and preventing suicide. Explore resources designed to help you support those in need and deepen your understanding of this issue.