Youth's death shows more mental health supports needed in Winnipeg, Muslim community members say

WARNING: This story contains discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, see the end of this story for resources.

The death of a youth on one of the most important religious holidays for Muslims has members of Winnipeg's Islamic community calling for more mental health supports.

Winnipeg police said they responded to a call involving a man in distress with self-inflicted injuries at the Waverley Grand Mosque Saturday afternoon.

Hakim Ghulam, a board member at the Manitoba Islamic Association, told CBC News on Sunday that the youth self-immolated sometime after afternoon prayers. He died later that night, Ghulam said.

"It's a family who lost their loved one, and we are with them and with others who are struggling in this difficult time," he said. "But we need to reflect upon it."

The Islamic Association and the police did not provide further details on the youth's identity out of respect for the family. But Ghulam said the family wanted it to be known he was suffering from mental health issues.

The incident happened on the eve of Eid al-Adha, a multi-day celebration commemorating the sacrifice of prophet Ibrahim.

More than 15,000 people showed up for prayer at the RBC Convention Centre on Sunday. There were also French-language services at the Franco-Manitoban Cultural Centre.

The Waverley mosque was empty Sunday afternoon, and certain areas have been closed to the public.

On Sunday, the association issued a statement urging for the removal of barriers to accessing mental health resources.

"On this day of Eid, otherwise a day of celebration, our community is deeply saddened," the statement said, adding that global issues, including the "genocide against Palestinians and Muslims in Gaza and the rest of Palestine," are impacting many people. 

"We cannot have positive mental health in the context of a racist, Islamophobic and genocidal world. And we cannot alleviate mental health concerns in a world that does not prioritize mental health as health."

Ghulam said the association has mental health counsellors who work with them. But he added that the community as a whole, including politicians, all need to do their part.

"We need to work together. We need to take care of each other much more," he said.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, here's where to get help:

• Canada's Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988.
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868. Text 686868. Live chat counselling on the website.
• Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Find a 24-hour crisis centre.
• This guide from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health outlines how to talk about suicide with someone you're worried about.