Suicide Prevention Month September 2023

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in 2021 the suicide rate of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania ranked 13^th in the nation with a reported 1,885 deaths (CDC, 2021).   These deaths could have been prevented if resources and treatment options were spoken about more commonly. Despite our best efforts, a stigma still exists when it comes to the subject of mental and suicide.  This stigma causes people not to speak about their struggles, and worse yet, avoid seeking professional help.

Every September our nation, and the world, recognize Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (SPAM) as a time when mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to bring awareness of and attention to the prevention of suicide.  During the week of September10^th through the 16^th Suicide Prevention Awareness Week is recognized in the United States with September 10^th being Word Suicide Prevention Day.  The best ways to observe Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is to:    

References

Resources

1. Raise awareness and reduce the stigma of mental health in your community.
2. Educate yourself and pass on that information to others about mental health and the availability of treatment.
3. Look out for others.  People may be suffering in silence and fear of judgement or ridicule. Look out for those individuals and extend a helping hand, a listening ear and a gentle nudge toward treatment.

• https://www.datocms-assets.com/12810/1649682186-14296_afsp_2022_national_fact_sheet_update_m1_v4.pdf
• SAMHSA: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988/partner-toolkit
• CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/suicide-mortality/suicide.htm
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/

• Know the Warning Signs and Risk Factors of Suicide
• Being Prepared for a Crisis
• Read our guide, "Navigating a Mental Health Crisis"
• What You Need to Know About Youth Suicide
• It’s Okay to Talk About Suicide
• Department of Behavioral Health & Intellectual disABILITY Services (DBHIDS)