September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Suicide not only ends an estimated 49,000 lives yearly in the United States, it leaves families and friends navigating grief, guilt and what ifs for the rest of their lives. It is the 10th leading cause of adult deaths and the second for 10 -24-year-olds. On Sept. 10, World Suicide Prevention Day, a National moment of silence was held to remember those lost, to let others know they are not alone and offer hope.
Every 11 minutes a person dies by suicide. One in 20 adults have serious thought of suicide each year. Seventy-nine percent of all suicides are men but more women than men attempt suicide.
The National Alliance on Mental Health recognizes this month as “a time to raise awareness, spread hope and spark meaningful action around one of the most urgent mental health issues of our time.” The organization provides tools, resources and support for individuals, families and friends to talk openly about suicide prevention, recognize warning signs and seek help.