Suicide Prevention Month, observed in September, takes on heightened significance due to a troubling rise in national suicide rates. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), after declining in 2019 and 2020, suicide deaths in the United States rose by about 5% in 2021. Data for 2022 shows a further increase of 2.6%, with suicides climbing from 48,183 in 2021 to nearly 49,500 in 2022, and preliminary data suggests that approximately 49,000 to 50,000 suicides occurred across the nation in 2023.
This month of observance underscores the critical need to enhance mental health awareness and understanding. To combat rising suicide rates, it is essential for communities to foster open discussions about mental well-being, offer compassionate support, and work to eliminate the stigma that is often associated with seeking help. By promoting accessible mental health resources, advocating for better mental health care, and being vigilant about warning signs, we can make meaningful strides in suicide prevention.
Additional information about the five action steps for communicating with someone who may be suicidal is available online at Bethe1to.com. For immediate, confidential support, call or text 988 to connect to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
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