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National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month signifies a collective commitment to prioritizing suicide prevention across the nation. It's a time of remembrance for lives lost to suicide, a period of solidarity with the millions of Americans who have faced the struggles of suicidality, and a poignant acknowledgment of the individuals, families, and communities profoundly affected by this issue.
In the United States, suicide stands as a solemn public health crisis, touching countless lives regardless of age, background, or circumstance. It holds the somber distinction of being a leading cause of death and the second most common cause among young individuals aged 10 to 34. The statistics are sobering: in 2019 alone, every 11 minutes, a life was lost to suicide. Behind these numbers lie even more individuals who contemplated or attempted suicide. That same year, a staggering 12 million American adults experienced thoughts of suicide, 3.5 million devised plans, and 1.4 million faced the dire depths of attempting suicide. While the impact spans across all communities, certain groups, such as American Indian/Alaska Natives, LGBTQ+ youth, veterans, and increasingly, black youth, bear a disproportionate burden.
Let's collectively dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health, fostering an environment that encourages open, supportive conversations. Together, we forge a path towards a future where each individual feels not only valued and acknowledged but also armed with the resources to navigate life's challenges. Here's to a September of increased awareness, deeper understanding, and united efforts towards a brighter tomorrow.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately.
If you are uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can chat the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.
You can also text NAMI to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line.
To find our more about our Suicide Prevention Related Training, please refer to the Available Workshops flyer below.
National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI)
Suicide Prevention Month Resources
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