September is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. Studies show that talking openly about suicide with someone at-risk may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health and a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Leading Causes of Death Reports, in 2021 suicide was the 11th leading cause of death, claiming the lives of 48,100 people. It was the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-14 and 25-34, the third leading cause among those aged 15-24, and the fifth leading cause among individuals aged 35-44.
These statistics are included not to alarm you, but to emphasize the importance of raising awareness about suicide prevention and taking action during this month.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has initiated #BeThe1To, outlining five action steps to help prevent suicide:
Be The 1 to: Ask
Asking open and non-judgmental questions like “How are you hurting?” and “Are you thinking about suicide?” can signal your support. Never promise to keep their suicidal thoughts a secret.
Be the 1 to: Be There
It’s crucial for at-risk individuals to feel heard and supported. Whether in person, over the phone, or via text, your presence can make a difference. Help them develop coping strategies or connect them with support groups to reduce their sense of isolation.
Be the 1 to: Keep them Safe
Immediate safety is paramount. If someone is suicidal, ask if they have a specific plan and help them limit access to means like weapons or medications. Develop a safety plan and involve crisis professionals when indicated.
Be the 1 to: Help them Connect
Encourage the at-risk person to build a support network within their community. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) and other resources can provide hope and reduce feelings of isolation.
Be the 1 to: Follow Up
Ongoing support is essential. Check in regularly with the person at-risk, whether through visits, texts, or calls. This helps maintain their sense of connection and reduces feelings of loneliness.
You can learn more about the #BeThe1To initiative through their website: https://www.bethe1to.com/
If you or someone you know is in crisis, remember, you don’t have to face it alone. There are options for support available. Here are a few:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Dial 988 for free support 24/7.
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor for free 24/7.
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, or text 838255 for support specifically for veterans.
Veterans Online Chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/chat
LGBTQ+:
The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-24. @thetrevorproject (866) 488-7386 therevorproject.org
Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis for the trans community, by the trans community. @translifeline (877) 565-8860 translifeline.org
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender National Hotline provides a safe space that is anonymous and confidential, staffed by highly trained volunteers who identify somewhere on the LBGTQ spectrum; @lgbt_national_hotline
LGBT National Hotline (for all ages) 888-843-4564
LGBT Youth Hotline (For callers through age 25) 800-246-7743
LGBT Senior Hotline (For callers 50 and older) 888-234-7243
SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for treatment referral and information for mental health and substance use disorders.
Emergency Services: If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and support is available to assist you through difficult times.
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