Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.
September is Suicide Prevention Month — a time to raise awareness of this urgently important crisis. We use this month to shift public perception, spread hope and share vital information to people affected by suicide. Our goal is ensuring that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.
Throughout September, we invite you to share your own messages about Suicide Prevention Month through the power of courageous community conversations. Help us amplify the message that there is strength in vulnerability.
Hashtag
#SuicidePreventionMonth
Community Impact
- The highest rates of suicide in the U.S. are among American Indian/Alaskan Natives, followed by non-Hispanic white people.
- Lesbian, gay and bisexual youth are 4x more likely to attempt suicide than straight youth.
- Transgender adults are nearly 9x more likely to attempt suicide at some point in their life compared to their peers.
- Suicide is the leading cause of death for people held in local jails.
We Can All Take Action
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.
Use the 5 Action Steps
These evidence-based action steps provide a blueprint for reaching and helping someone in crisis. 1) Ask. 2) Be there. 3) Help keep them safe. 4) Help them connect. 5) Follow up.
Visit https://www.bethe1to.com/
Practice Active Listening
Hearing someone talk is different from actively listening to what that person is saying. Active listening requires concentration and understanding. Improving your listening skills is easy to do with practice and these helpful tips.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
Data from CDC, NIMH and other select sources.