Suicide Prevention Awareness Month provides a dedicated time for all to come together to address the difficult topic of suicide. Bringing awareness can help to provide resources for those in need and their loved ones, give communities tools and education, continue research and innovations, continuously engage in policy work, and drive thought leadership with passion and intent.
While suicide prevention must be addressed year-round, the month of September reminds us all that we can Make An Impact and help those in crisis and their loved ones.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at www.988lifeline.org
We Can All Help Prevent Suicide
Below are wonderful tips from the 998 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The 988 Lifeline network and its partners are working to change the conversation from suicide to suicide prevention, to actions that can promote healing, help and give hope.
Ask
Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.
Be There
Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful by after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.
Keep Them Safe
A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline.
Help Them Stay Connected
Studies indicate that helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.
Follow Up
Studies have also shown that brief, low cost intervention and supportive, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially for individuals after they have been discharged from hospitals or care services.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at www.988lifeline.org
Together, we can MAKE AN IMPACT!
AAS offers several opportunities to MAKE AN IMPACT to support suicide prevention and research. Select the icons below for more information:
Let’s Talk About Suicide Prevention Storytelling Series
To break the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health, storytelling is a powerful tool to normalize these conversations. Share these videos on your social media channels and promote in your community.
Share your story by visiting www.suicidology.org/mystory
World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10th
On Sunday, September 10th, the American Association of Suicidology (AAS) presented popular Peloton instructor and mental health advocate Kendall Toole with the first-ever AAS Make An Impact Award at the 2023 World Suicide Prevention Day Benefit at The Bowery Electric in New York City.
This incredible night was hosted by legendary NYC radio personality Maria Milito and featured two fantastic performances from Dave Hause and Emily Wolfe.
To learn more about the event, please visit www.suicidology.org/benefit.
2022 Provisional Data (SOURCE: CDC)
(As of August 2023)