Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
Photo credit: Cristian Newman/Unsplash
A lot of people are suffering from depression and thinking about suicide because of the pandemic.
A recent survey by the CDC found that 40% of those surveyed reported an increase in mental health and addiction related challenges, and 1 in 4 young adults reported having contemplated suicide. The survey also found that the toll is falling heaviest on young adults, caregivers, essential workers, and people of color.
Suicide is a significant public health issue. The entire month of September carries a simple, potentially life-saving message: suicide is preventable. Learn about suicide risk factors and warning signs.
If you believe someone you know may be thinking about suicide:
1. Check in with them. Ask them directly, “Are you thinking about suicide?”
2. Listen and connect them to resources that can help them stay safe, like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 and NYC Well 1-888-NYC-WELL (or text “WELL” to 65173)
Open, comfortable and direct talk about suicide is the key to breaking stigma and preventing suicide.