Suicide Prevention Month

From the Equity & Inclusion Commission:

September is Suicide Prevention Month. Approximately 10 percent of people will experience thoughts of suicide at least once in their life, according to the National Institute of Health. You never know what others around you are going through, but it's helpful to know the following 12 Suicide Warning Signs:

1. Feeling like a burden
2. Being isolated
3. Increased anxiety
4. Feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
5. Increased substance use
6. Looking for a way to access lethal means
7. Increased anger or rage
8. Extreme mood swings
9. Expressing hopelessness
10. Sleeping too little or too much
11. Talking or posting about wanting to die
12. Making plans for suicide

These are just warning signs which can vary in presentation from person to person, but they should be met with a caring response. Ignoring the problem is not an option.

What should you do to help someone at risk?

• Ask them about what they are experiencing. (Some people worry that asking about the problem will "push them over the edge," but this is not true.)
• Keep them safe. If the issue is serious enough and they state they want to die, that's when you call 911, First Responders (police, fire, EMTs) are highly trained and respond to calls of this nature all the time. Don't be afraid to call for help.
• Be there for them, not just in the moment, but in the coming weeks and months.
• Help them connect to resources.

Know where to get help

If you or someone you know is in distress, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for 24/7 free and confidential support. The Mental Health Board also recommends Suicide Prevention Services of America for its dedicated programs and services focused on suicide prevention.