SEPTEMBER 10-16TH IS NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION WEEK

September 10-16 is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Week. This week is a time to renew our focus on learning about suicide prevention, and ensure we are taking care of ourselves AND others. Our hope is to encourage conversations and spread awareness in an effort to prevent suicide.

National Suicide Prevention week and National Suicide Prevention month both happen during the month of September, however it’s important we offer support throughout the year. To help save a life, it’s vital to raise awareness of this leading cause of death and to help one another see how they can help support this cause in their communities.

Often times, those suffering are right next to us, going about their daily lives, and unbeknownst to us, not sharing their daily struggles. This year The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is highlighting a new Talk  Away the Dark campaign to help shed the light. It’s important to know that we can ALL make a difference by learning the warning signs, knowing risk factors and being willing to have honest conversations with those we care about. Having those conversations might be the difference between life and death.

In 2021, 48,183 people died by suicide in the United States.

Talking is the first step to prevent suicide.  Speak your truth.

Suicide is a topic that hides in the shadows. All too often it goes unaddressed, even when we may sense someone is struggling.

You can make a difference by learning the warning signs,  knowing the risk factors, and bravely having a REAL open and honest conversation with someone you care about.

Something to look out for when concerned that a person may be suicidal is a change in behavior or the presence of entirely new behaviors. This is of sharpest concern if the new or changed behavior is related to a painful event, loss, or change. Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do.

To read more of the resources and creative ways to be part of the “Talk Away The Dark” campaign this year, please visit this fantastic and resourceful website, here.