Yellowknife (Feb 02/04) - The Kamatsiaqtut help line provides a much needed service for Nunavummiut but not many people know about the service.

The Kamatsiaqtut board of directors are discouraged by the record high suicide statistics for 2003 released recently. Last year, 37 people across the territory took their own lives.

Terry Young, a board member, said he and the other members are trying to raise public awareness about the service, hoping they can do something to reduce the suicide rates.

"Our greatest challenge has been public relations," said Kublu, a board member. "We want people to know that we are there for them."

This year, one goal the board has is to become more visible.

"We don't know how effective our messages are in the communities outside Iqaluit," said Sheila Levy, chairperson of the board.

Young explained that while they are reaching some people in need, there are still many people thinking about suicide.

"Some nights the volunteers will be busy, but other nights there won't be one phone call," said Levy.

"We know there could be more calls if people knew about the help line," added Young.

Anyone who wants to talk about their problems, not just suicide, can call the help line, said Levy.

Board member Charlotte Borg explained that it can be helpful just talking to another person. "We are here to support people and to help them make positive choices," she said.

The help line is open from 7 p.m. to midnight, seven days a week. The phone number is 979-3333 or 1-800-265-3333.