Terrence Buyck, a resident of Haines Junction, Yukon, walked through various communities across the territory from July 18 to August 16 to raise awareness about mental health. His four-week journey, which began in Mayo and concluded in Whitehorse, was a tribute to his late brother and aimed to honour those who have been lost to suicide, addiction, and mental health challenges.
Walking has been a crucial part of Buyck’s personal healing process after the loss of his brother to suicide in June. He invited Yukoners to join him, either virtually or in person, as he visited communities throughout the Yukon. His project, titled One Step, One Day: Yukon Healing Journey, was designed to start conversations about mental health, substance use, and suicide. “I know it’s not just one community—there are so many communities that feel the same pain I do,” he said.
Buyck has also lost several friends over the years to struggles with mental health and substance use. He embarked on this walk not only for those who are grieving but also as a way to honour their memories through action. His journey took him to communities such as Old Crow, Ross River, Watson Lake, Teslin, Carcross, Haines Junction, Dawson, and Carmacks, culminating in Whitehorse.
The walk was made possible through donations and on-ground support from several organizations, including the Council of Yukon First Nations, Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun, and the Warrior Walkers Alliance.
The North has a higher suicide rate compared to the rest of Canada. According to the 2021 Yukon Health Status Report, between 2013 and 2020, the suicide rate in Yukon was 22.4 per 100,000 people, compared to the national average of 11.7 per 100,000. This statistic highlights the importance of Buyck’s effort to connect with people and ensure they feel supported in their grief.
Yukon residents could join Buyck in the walk by matching his schedule in their region, which was shared through the Facebook page, or they could also sign up to do a virtual walk with the project.
For Yukon residents seeking support, here are some available resources:
- Reach Out Support Line 24/7 – 1-844-533-3030
- Hope For Wellness Helpline: 1-855-242-3310 (phone, available in Inuktitut, Cree, and Ojibway upon request)
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 (phone), live chat counselling on the website
- 24-hour crisis centre for the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health outlines talking about suicide with someone you’re worried about.
Source: CBC
