September is National Suicide Prevention Month. All month mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to provide support, intervention, and awareness. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Every day approximately 123 Americans die by suicide (approximately 48,000 annually). Only half of the people experiencing major depression seek treatment. Suicide thoughts can plaque anyone regardless of age. Suicide thoughts and depression are often covered up quite well. If you are suffering from depression or thoughts of suicide, please reach out to a loved one, friend, health care provider or call The National Suicide Prevention Life Line: 1-800-273-(TALK) 8255.
SAMHSA Prevention Resources
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Crisis Lines
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. You can call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or chat.
Crisis Text Line
Text Line is free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text 741741 from anywhere in the U.S. to text with a trained Crisis Counselor. Crisis Text Line trains volunteers to support people in crisis. With over 79 million messages processed to date, they are growing quickly, but so is the need.
Veterans Crisis Line
The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource that’s available to anyone, even if you’re not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. The caring, qualified responders at the Veterans Crisis Line are specially trained and experienced in helping veterans of all ages and circumstances; many of the responders are veterans themselves. If you’re a veteran in crisis or concerned about one, there are caring, qualified VA responders standing by to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 or text 838255.
Resources: www.samhsa.gov