National Suicide Prevention Week

This week is National Suicide Prevention Week. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States of America.

AFSP has excellent tools and resources to learn more about suicide and suicide prevention. It’s critical we act to prevent suicide and fight against the stigma associated with suicide and mental illness.

It’s okay to ask how someone is doing.

It’s okay to ask for help.

Here are some resources to help you start learning more about how to help others and take care of yourself:

• Watch videos, read conversation examples, learn how to take action:  https://afsp.org/campaigns/national-suicide-prevention-week-2019/
• Suicide Prevention Lifeline Chat and Info: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
• 5 Action Steps: https://www.bethe1to.com/bethe1to-steps-evidence/
• Additional Prevention Tips: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2018/09/10/suicide-prevention-how-help-someone-who-suicidal/965640002/

Support Phone Numbers and Chat Services:

Suicide Lifeline: If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts you can call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) any time of day or night or chat online.

Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.

For those who identify as LGBTQ+, you can contact The Trevor Project's TrevorLifeline 24/7/365 at 1-866-488-7386.

The Military/Veterans Crisis Line, online chat, and text-messaging service are free to all service members, including members of the National Guard and Reserve and veterans, even if you are not registered with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or enrolled in VA health care. Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.