September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness of this stigmatized, and often taboo, topic.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (https://www.nami.org/mhstats), suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-34. We use this month to shift public perception, spread hope and share vital information to people affected by suicide. Our goal is ensuring families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.
Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.
According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (https://nspw.afsp.org/) if you ask someone directly if they are thinking about suicide it will NOT put the idea in their head. Often they will be relieved someone cares enough to hear their about their experience with thoughts of suicide. Asking the question, ‘are you thinking about suicide?’ communicates that you are open to talking about suicide in a non-judgmental and supportive way. Asking directly can open the door for communication about help.
Help is available. There is hope. Suicide can be prevented.
