Stigma against trans people can come from laws and policies which create inequalities or fail to protect them from discrimination. Policies which make gender-affirming care more accessible contribute to the mental health of trans people.

When a trans person reaches out to other trans people or groups and expands their network of support, it can help them stay mentally healthy. Learn more about how suicide can be prevented among trans people in this free resource:

Trans people often face discrimination in healthcare settings, yet access to healthcare is vital for trans people as those who seek to medically transition required specialized care. It is important for workers to be trained in gender-affirming care.

Register now for the 8th annual #RunforLife2025 and join us on a journey from darkness to light. Until Aug. 31, registration fees and donations will be matched up to 50% by Rogers Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink.

Transphobia refers to the rejection of trans identity and a refusal to acknowledge that it is real and valid. We can all help prevent this discrimination by normalizing pronoun sharing and using inclusive language.

Trans people may face discrimination in workplaces, academic institutions, and health and social services. Creating safe spaces, providing access to all-gender bathrooms, and normalizing pronoun sharing are just a few ways we can support trans people.

@GregClarkAB @nenshi @Richard4Alberta @McDougallYYC @SearleTurton @JasonNixonAB @MikeEllisUCP @RicMcIver @GregMcLeanYYC @real_jtwright 🧵/5. @MikeLakeMP @janeteremenko @joececiyyc

@GregClarkAB @nenshi @Richard4Alberta @McDougallYYC @SearleTurton @JasonNixonAB 🧵/4. @MikeEllisUCP @RicMcIver @GregMcLeanYYC @real_jtwright

@GregClarkAB @nenshi 🧵/3 Throughout the 10 days, we had countless conversations with community partners, leaders and government officials as we work towards building mentally healthy communities, together. Thanks to all!. @Richard4Alberta @McDougallYYC @SearleTurton @JasonNixonAB

🧵/2 Together we enjoy collective effervescence: the feeling of energy and harmony we experience when we are engaged with others in shared purpose, basking in a sense of belonging. @GregClarkAB @Nenshi

🧵/1 Happy Stampede! Calgary comes alive during Stampede in a way unlike any other time during the year. The city welcomes guests from around the world (and so many from Edmonton!). @coreyhoganyyc @Richard4Alberta @LtGovAb @jyotigondek

Internalized stigma against oneself is a result of exposure to stigma from the outside world. Trans people may conceal their true identity, even to themselves, because of this stigma. Learn how trans people can be supported in this free resource:

We’ve updated our fact sheet about transgender people and suicide prevention. This resource was updated in collaboration with @MHCC_. Trans people face unique stressors, which can result in a greater likelihood that they may consider suicide.

When people rely heavily on substances to cope with their physical or psychological pain, substance use disorder can develop, further increasing vulnerability to suicide.

There are several reasons why a person who has substance use disorder may also have an increased risk for suicide, including because they may become isolated from loved ones who they can turn to for help.

“Whether that’s a safe adult or a safe friend that you can confide in and feel like your authentic self with, it is so important (to have a safe person to talk to)."

Our toolkit about substance use disorder and suicide has a conversation guide for talking to someone you’re worried about.

A positive support system - stable relationships with family, friends, and service providers - can help prevent a person with substance use disorder from thinking about suicide.

#RunforLife2025 is only a few months away! Register now to honour people we’ve lost to suicide and raise awareness for suicide prevention.

"Health professionals who are open to the psychological dynamics of the suicidal individual will be more effective in reducing suicide risk in their patients."