Seniors Mental Health Services in BC

Self-Injury Awareness Day, also known as Self-Harm Awareness Day, is observed on the 1st of March every year. The day aims to raise awareness about self-injury and its effects on individuals who engage in it. Self-injury is a significant concern for people of all ages, but seniors may be particularly vulnerable to mental health challenges that can lead to self-injurious behavior. As individuals age, they may experience a range of physical and mental health challenges that can contribute to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and despair. Seniors may be coping with the loss of loved ones, changes in living arrangements, or chronic health conditions that can limit their mobility and independence. These challenges can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, which may in turn lead to self-injurious behavior.

It's important to recognize the signs of self-injurious behavior in seniors, such as cuts or bruises that they can't explain, avoiding social situations, or withdrawing from activities they used to enjoy. Some seniors may stop taking medication or refuse to eat as a form of self-injury, either to punish themselves or as a way of expressing feelings of hopelessness or despair.

If you suspect that a senior in your life may be engaging in self-injury, it's important to offer support and connect them with mental health professionals who can provide the appropriate care and treatment. The following links can be used to locate services within your health authority.

Vancouver Coastal Health: http://www.vch.ca/Locations-Services/result?res_id=281

Fraser Health: https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Services/mental-health-and-substance-use/mental-health---community-services/older-adult-community-mental-health-program#.YvWdQmPMLIV

Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/seniors/seniors-mental-health

Interior Health: https://www.interiorhealth.ca/services/seniors-mental-health-substance-use-services

Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/services/mental-health-substance-use/services-by-community