September Is Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month.

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S.

In 2019, there were an estimated 1.38 million suicide attempts. 

In 2019, there were 47,511 suicide deaths. 

78% of all people who die from suicide are male.

This number has grown exponentially in the past decade or two, as the rate has increased by 30% by 2000. As a community, it is important to not only spread awareness on suicide prevention, but to continue to show support to those surrounding you and speak up if you feel someone is going to harm themselves. Suicide continues to be a stigmatized topic and in order to break that stigma, September is dedicated to suicide prevention. 

Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of their age, gender, race, etc. These thoughts should not be considered normal, and are usually the cause of a deep mental health condition. Rates of suicide are high in males as male mental health continues to be even more stigmatized than females mental health and suicide. 

We can all take action in the prevention of suicide. The Suicide Prevention Lifeline says, “Evidence shows that providing support services, talking about suicide, reducing access to means of self-harm, and following up with loved ones are just some of the actions we can all take to help others.”

Resources:

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255

If you’re uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can also text NAMI to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line.

Spread Awareness

To spread awareness, use the hashtags #SuicidePrevention and #Together4MH on social media posts. Provide media posts on statistics and suicide prevention as well as the suicide prevention hotline. Continue to talk to your loved ones and check in on their mental health as well as your own. Encourage therapy resources if you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health.