Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs (SACPA)

Recent statistics indicate the suicide rate in Alberta has increased dramatically concurrent with mounting job losses across the province. The most recent data indicate that 30 per cent more Albertans took their lives in 2015 compared to 2014.   Some attribute this grim statistic to the downturn in oil prices and the economy, but what really lies behind these suicide statistics?  What are the causes of depression, and why does Alberta have such a high suicide rate?  The speakers will explore what some of the early warning signs of depression are and what preventative measures can be taken. As well, they will explain how family and community can help victims of depression. Speakers: Mackenzie Becker and Adam Greaves Mackenzie Becker is a graduate student at the University of Lethbridge completing a Masters of Education in Counselling Psychology (with a