Experiences of suicide-related thoughts and behaviours during the COVID-19 pandemic: A pan-Canadian qualitative study

10 people die by suicide in Canada every day, and many more suffer from suicide-related thoughts and behaviours. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the lives of all Canadians, and has been associated with worsening mental health and substance use, poorer access to health care, trauma, bereavement, financial stress, and social isolation. These tragic consequences are also risk factors for suicide. This study, the first of its kind, explores the stories of Canadians from four provinces who have had or our having suicide-related thoughts and behaviours during the pandemic through in-depth interviews. By hearing their voices and bearing witness to their stories, we can better understand how the pandemic has affected mental health, access to mental health care, and well being, and what factors can promote healing and recovery.