September is National Suicide Prevention Month and National Celebrate Recovery Month. All month, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, persons with lived experience, and community members unite to promote prevention and recovery awareness.
National Suicide Prevention Month is a national observance held every September to educate Americans on the suicide epidemic our nation is experiencing, advocate for prevention, and support creating pathways to wellness.
Suicide is one of the most preventable types of death in our nation. However,
• Suicide currently ranks as the second leading cause of death for ages 10-45
• An average of 123 suicides each day in this country
• Suicide is one of the fastest-growing epidemics around the world
• Approximately 44,000 people in the U.S. alone die by suicide each year
Fortunately, in recent years, society has become more open and receptive to discussions and conversations on mental health and suicide. However, there is still a stigma surrounding it and, with suicide rates increasing, it means that the right help is not reaching people on time. We have a long way to go.
Understand that thoughts of suicide can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, culture, or social status. While it is commonly linked to depression and substance use, there is no foolproof indicator of what makes someone consider suicide. Many people mental and behavioral health, substance use disorders, and/or thoughts of suicide often cover them up quite well.
All of us play a role in creating awareness, reducing the causes of, and preventing suicide.
• Get involved.
• Share your story.
• Listen to those who have recovered, those that still need help, and mental health advocates, survivors, friends, family, and mental health organizations across the country and around the world that share their experiences and work towards eradicating this most tragic act.
• Advocate for change
• Reach out for support when needed.
Recovery belongs to all of us. It’s for Every Person, Every Family, Every Community. Recovery Month, is an opportunity for each of us to help raise awareness & understanding of mental health, behavioral health, emotional health, substance use disorders, and suicide prevention.
As you move through your recovery journey and work towards your path to wellness, know that there are mental health professionals available to talk with at the New Mexico Crisis and Access Line (855-662-7474), and the Peer-to-Peer Warmline (855-466-7100).
Original source found here.
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