Suicide in Nunavut a 'crisis,' 'epidemic'

Nunavuts chief coroner is calling suicide in Nunavut a crisis and an epidemic.

On Thursday,Padma Suramalasays that's why she's calling an inquest into suicides in Nunavut.

"It's not just numbers, Suramala says. As a human being and as a person it is very difficult for me and my coroners to go to each and every suicide. It is very disheartening to see and investigate each case. We would also like to see these numbers reducing.

• Listen to PadmaSuramala on why she's calling an inquest into suicide

Suramala says there were a record 45 suicides in 2013, and already three deaths in the first two weeks of 2014.

Four hundred and thirty four people, mainly young Inuit men and women, have taken their own lives in the territory since 1999.

The youngest was just 11 years old.

Suramala hopes the inquest will shed light on what needs to be done to deal with the crisis.

It certainly cant hurt, said Nunavut suicide researcher, Jack Hicks, of the inquiry. Hicks was involved in the Nunavut suicide prevention strategy and has been calling for more action on implementation of that strategy.

• Listen toJack Hicks full conversation with As it Happens Carol Off.

JoanasieAkumaliklost his son,Aapi, to suicide last year. He was24.

I think all the stress that a lot of young people are facing, is part of the cause, which is sometimes a lack of education, no income and other stressful issues that are happening in the North, Akumalik says.

• Listen toJoanasie Akumaliks full conversation with As it Happens Carol Off.

The specialinquest will involve a public jury of six people.

Theyll investigate three deaths in detail, and the factors leading up to them, then come up with recommendations.

The inquest is planned for this fall.

Across Nunavut, theNunavut Kamatsiaqtut Helpline is openevery night from 7-12 p.m. ET at867-979-3333 or 1-800-265-3333.