Quebec Sees Drop in Suicide Rates, But Challenges Remain
The most recent data on suicide rates in Quebec are showing an encouraging trend, with an overall decrease in numbers. However, certain rural areas are still facing significant challenges in this regard.
According to a report released by the Quebec Public Health Institute (INSPQ) for the year 2026, the suicide rate in the province has declined from 17.9 to 11.9 suicides per 100,000 individuals between 2000 and 2023.
Men continue to be disproportionately affected by suicide, with a rate three times higher than that of women. The rate for men stands at 18.1 suicides per 100,000 people, while for women, it is 5.7 suicides per 100,000 individuals.
Significant variations in suicide rates are also observed across different regions within Quebec. Nunavik, a region with a population of around 14,000, stands out with the highest suicide rate at 122.7 suicides per 100,000 people for the period between 2021 and 2023. In contrast, the rest of the province recorded a rate of 12.5 suicides per 100,000 individuals during the same period.
Furthermore, the report highlights that several other regions in Quebec, such as Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Chaudière-Appalaches, Mauricie and Centre-du-Québec, Estrie, and Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, have notably higher suicide rates compared to the provincial average.
On the other hand, regions like Laval, Montreal, and the Montérégie demonstrate significantly lower suicide rates.
In terms of age groups, the data reveal that men aged 50 to 64 had the highest suicide rate in 2023, while women aged 35 to 49 experienced the highest rate among females.
The report also sheds light on suicide attempts leading to hospitalizations, indicating that in 2024, Quebec witnessed over 3,780 such cases, translating to a rate of 42.0 per 100,000 individuals. Notably, suicide attempts resulting in hospitalization are more prevalent among women.
It is essential to note that if you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, support is available 24/7 through various channels, including phone, text message, and online chat services.
