World Suicide Prevention Day

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. Suicide can be a hard thing to talk about, but that is why having a healthy discussion around this topic is that much more important. Talking about suicide lessens its stigma and can even save lives. 

If you or someone you know has had thoughts about suicide, know that

you are not alone.

According to the CDC, in 2022, about 13.2 million adults had thoughts regarding suicide. Not only do suicidal thoughts affect adults, but they affect people of all ages. 

In 2022, suicide was responsible for about 1 death every 11 minutes. One of the best ways to prevent death from suicide is to become familiar with its warning signs and get help immediately.

Warning signs of suicide to look out for in your friends or yourself include: 

  • Talking about the desire to die 

  • Feelings of complete hopelessness

  • Isolating oneself from other people

  • Loss of interest and joy in everything 

  • Excessive use of drugs or alcohol 

  • Giving away items or saying goodbyes

  • Researching ideas of ways to die 

You have a role to play in suicide prevention. If you see these signs in the people around you, or in yourself, reach out for help as soon as possible. Here are some resources and next steps you can take to prevent suicide:

If you have had thoughts of suicide, there are always resources for you, like the ones above. You are loved. You are cared for. People want to help you. Below are 7 lessons learned from someone who has lived through the process of losing a good friend. 

  • The recovery process takes a community 

  • Grieving can be very complex 

  • Suicide is very complicated 

  • Suicide is never the answer

  • Mental illness is just as serious as physical illnesses 

  • Breaking the suicide stigma means speaking up about it

  • Our own experience and support from peers is essential 

To read deeper into these lessons, visit the article on the National Alliance on Mental Illness

Suicide is real and cannot be ignored. Learning about the signs of suicide and prevention resources can save someone’s life, whether that be your own or someone you love. 

If you have lost a loved one to suicide, know that it is okay to take time to grieve.

It is not your fault.

Give yourself time to process, get counseling if you need it, spend time in community, and allow those around you to love you and take care of you.