September is National Suicide Prevention Month
According to a research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide was the tenth greatest cause of death in the United States in 2019, taking the lives of more than 47,000 people. In fact, there were nearly twice as many suicides as homicides that year (19,141).
Suicide prevention is a really important initiative, which is why Lifeline and other mental health groups have joined forces to raise awareness of the problem during September, which has been designated National Suicide Prevention Month.
Suicide is a stigmatized and taboo subject, and this month is dedicated not only to raising awareness but also to sharing hope and vital information to those impacted by suicide. In order to ensure that everyone who needs access to key resources receives access, it is crucial that everyone affected by suicide participate this month.
How to Get Involved
There are a few different ways to add your voice and experience to the narrative this September:
Spread the Word
Lifeline’s website provides banners, flyers, and logos that you may download, print, and post around your local community, helping to spread awareness. There are also brochures and pamphlets you can order to hand out on college campuses, local businesses, and health clinics.
Volunteer
Contact your local Lifeline crisis center about volunteering opportunities.
Tell Your Story
If you have overcome your own mental health challenges and discovered recovery and hope for a better future, it is a great idea to share your optimism with others.
Conversely, if your life has been affected by suicide in some manner and you feel strong enough to share your own experience with others, it is also extremely beneficial to do so. Your story may assist others in recognizing the warning signs in their own loved ones.
Get Help
If you or someone you know is still grieving the loss of a loved one from suicide, it’s important to get the help you need. All loss is difficult to navigate, but in my practice, I have found loss from suicide can feel like an overwhelming weight to carry.
If you’d like to explore treatment options, please reach out to me.
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