rural and remote communities throughout Canada Suicide is among the leading causes of death in 15-24 year old Canadians, second only to accidents. ( Source: The Canadian Mental Health Association) Mental health is increasingly being recognized as an issue affecting the lives of all youth in Canada. Canada's youth suicide rate is the third highest in the industrialized world. (Source: The Canadian Mental Health Association) Suicide rates of Aboriginal youth (aged 15 to 24) are eight times higher than the national rate for females and five times higher than the national rate for males. Kids Help Phone counsellors have noted an increase in suicide-related contacts since launching Live Chat counselling earlier this year How to talk to young people about suicide: "Not talking about tough issues means the young people in your lives may not know it is safe to turn to you, and may end up feeling more isolated or misunderstood," urges Roberts. Here are a few tips that can help parents start this important discussion: Do not let fear stop you; open up the conversation. Visit kidshelpphone.ca with your child it may help you overcome fears and start a discussion. Whether your child is sharing their own suicidal thoughts, or is expressing worry about a friend, try not to judge. Let your child do the talking, and try to avoid interrupting or expressing disappointment. Keep in mind that young people are also very sensitive to body language and facial expressions. If you suspect your child is in emotional