The month of September is suicide prevention month across the United States, with hopes of raising awareness, shifting perspectives and sharing information. The most recent statistics from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reveal that suicide is the 12th leading cause of death with over 45,000 Americans dying by suicide in 2020 and nearly 1.2 million individuals attempted suicide. With these staggering statistics, it is important to shift our focus to suicide prevention this month and help those in need. There are many resources available to both the individual in need and loved ones who are looking for support.
Signs to Look for from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):
- Isolation from friends, family and support system.
- An increase in substance abuse.
- • Showing aggressive or behavior, mood swings.
- Saying goodbyes to loved ones.
- Saving pills or purchasing a weapon.
How to get help:
If you are someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, here are some resources that you can access right now: • Call or text 988 or text TALK to 741741 (available 24/7) • You can chat with the Suicide and Crisis lifeline at 988lifeline.org • Check out the resources below for more information and help
Resources:
https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/
https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Suicide-Prevention Awareness-Month-(SPAM)
