September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to acknowledge the internal struggles that our peers face every day as we work to end the stigma surrounding suicide. September has been known as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month since 2008, with a specific week and day during the month designated to the cause. As September is also the month when many are going back to school, it is the perfect time to acknowledge your own mental health, learn what resources are available, and provide support to those around you.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) states that they “…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.”
Stigma
There are many examples of the stigma and misinformation surrounding the act of suicide. For instance, many people believe that discussing suicide is taboo, or that simply talking about it can give people the idea to take their own life. By acknowledging and speaking openly about the truths of the matter, many organizations are working to end the shame and prejudice around suicide and suicidal ideations.
When their families and peers do not acknowledge mental health issues or intentionally avoid conversations on the topic, it can make those with suicidal thoughts feel even more isolated. Being open and honest about suicide and its many causes is a great first step in prevention.
Though you may be uncomfortable discussing suicide and its warning signs, doing so may save a life. Do not let your beliefs about polite conversation dictate how you respond to tragedy or interact with your peers. Think to yourself about how discussing suicide makes you feel, and if perhaps you have been taught or conditioned to avoid conversations about it. Use your voice to start a dialogue with your friends, family, and social media followers about how to look out for each other and recognize the warning signs that someone is in crisis.
Statistics
According to the CDC, suicide was among the top 9 leading causes of death for people ages 10-64 in 2020. In the same year, suicide was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-14 and 25-34. Also in 2020, there were an estimated 1.2 million suicide attempts in the United States.
Due to the stigma around it, you may be surprised at just how prevalent suicide is as a cause of death in the United States. Take time to process the severity of these statistics, and look into ways that you can do your best for yourself and others in preventing these numbers from getting any higher.
Prevention Resources
In 2020, the number 988 became the national crisis hotline number, directing calls to the preexisting National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Crisis counselors are always available at this number to listen to people in crisis and offer guidance and resources. You can even use this number to talk with someone about your concerns for a friend you believe to be experiencing suicidal thoughts. These counselors are also available via text or chat, making it a valuable resource for people in need of immediate assistance.
- The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) provides a comprehensive list of resources for various helplines, educational tools, and risk prevention sites.
- The CDC also provides a toolkit for those struggling with suicidal thoughts due to stress or a traumatic event.
- If you believe somebody you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, contact 988 or visit the NAMI website for more advice on how to provide them with the support and compassion they need.
There are myriad online and in-person resources for those struggling with suicidal thoughts- you just have to know how and when to use them. Take time this month to educate yourself on the warning signs of suicide and how you can work to change the stigma around it.
At Shannon Psychiatry I provide flexible telehealth appointments so you can keep up with your busy schedule and still prioritize your mental health. If you are interested in virtual mental health services, contact me today to get started.