Every year thousands of people across the world die by suicide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2017, suicide claimed the lives of over 47,000 people, the national suicide rate is at a 50 year high, climbing 33% since 1999. In 2017, suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34, and the fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 54.
In light of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Week (September 8-14, 2019), we encourage you to join together and support suicide prevention by educating yourself on the warning signs of suicide and discussing suicide prevention with those around you. By starting the conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, we can prevent suicides and save lives.
Fortunately, there is a wealth of resources available for you and your organization. We have compiled the following resources for your easy access, please take a moment to check them out. Want to share what initiatives your organization is participating in to increase awareness and prevent suicide, comment below and let us know.
Each Mind Matters – California’s Mental Health Movement
2019 Suicide Prevention Week Activation Toolkit
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - (800) 273-8255
Preventing Suicide: A Technical Package of Policy, Programs, and Practices
Suicide Prevention Resource Center – Risk and Protective Factors