Go-To Resources For National Suicide Prevention Month

Suicides occur across all groups and age ranges, and accessing prevention resources is more important than ever before.

Resources include general help for anyone and more specialized options for specific groups, such as adolescents or LGBTQ+ people.

No matter who you are, know that help is available if you need it in a time of crisis.

Why Is National Suicide Prevention Month Important?

Raising awareness about suicide is vital to help prevent it from happening. People who recognize troubling signs in themselves or a loved one may be able to access care before it’s too late.

Recent data shows that about 130 Americans commit suicide every day. The rates are highest among people between the ages of 25 and 34 and the elderly, but youth suicide rates are also troubling.

People in the LGBTQ+ community, veterans, and anyone with chronic mental illness, financial difficulties, or severe trauma are at a higher risk of suicide than those who don’t match these descriptions.

One survey found that 94% of Americans believe that suicide is preventable, and it can be with access to the right assistance.

Warning Signs Of Suicide

Learning the warning signs of an impending suicide attempt is one of the most important things you can do to help prevent a loved one from harming themselves.

If someone close to you is displaying the following risk factors, don’t hesitate to reach out and offer help.

Common warning signs of suicide include:

• withdrawing from loved ones
• loss of interest in activities, work, or school
• taking extreme risks
• giving away possessions
• sudden changes in appearance
• increased substance use
• severe mood swings
• depression or anxiety
• expressing feelings of hopelessness or despair
• talking about wanting to die or having no reason to live
• feeling like a burden to others
• making a suicide plan

National Suicide Prevention Organizations And Agencies

There are many different groups and nonprofit organizations across the country dedicated to helping people with suicide prevention. These may be 24/7 hotlines, online resources, or healthcare centers.

Crisis Hotlines

Crisis hotlines are one of the easiest and most accessible ways to find immediate help during a crisis. You can find several hotlines that are available 24/7 throughout the year.

The most well-known one is the nationwide 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, offering support in English or Spanish as well as via text.

Another text crisis helpline is 741-741, which allows you to confidentially speak to a trained crisis counselor.

Specialized helplines include:

• the Veterans Crisis Text Line, at 838255
• the RAINN sexual assault line, at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
• the substance abuse helpline, at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

For queer-identifying people, the Trevor Project is an excellent health resource that has saved hundreds of lives. The number is 1-866-488-7386.

Mental Health Groups

There are many different groups that can help with information, outreach resources, and crisis assistance for issues including mental illnesses, suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, and more.

Just a few of these include:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
• The Jason Foundation
• American Association of Suicidology
• Mental Health America
• The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide
• Wounded Warrior Project
• SAVE
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
• Jed Foundation
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Although the exact initiatives provided by these health groups vary, you can find information on suicide as well as what to do if you or a loved one is having suicidal thoughts.

State Resources For Suicide Prevention

Every state has its own specific resources available to help with self-harm, substance use disorders, suicidal ideation, and other mental health issues.

Many states offer local hotlines that can help with these issues, including assistance with finding nearby healthcare providers, crisis centers, or psychiatric hospitals for urgent care.

The best way to find this kind of assistance is to explore your state’s department of health and human services website.

If you’re not ready to talk to a mental health professional, you can try looking for mental health support groups, such as those for young adults, LGBTQ+ people, veterans, parents, and more.

Support From Loved Ones

The most immediate, and often one of the most helpful, ways to combat suicidal ideation is to reach out to friends, family members, and other loved ones for assistance.

Asking for help during a mental health crisis isn’t easy, but it can make all the difference. No matter how vague suicidal thoughts seem, they should always be taken seriously.

If someone comes to you for help, take them at their word. Give them a safe space to share their thoughts and feelings while offering kindness and support. Ask them if they want help seeking care.

If a loved one seems to be at immediate risk of harming themselves, call 911. Stay with them or keep them on the phone until help arrives.

Whether you yourself are experiencing suicidal thoughts or a loved one is, it can be scary. However, you are not alone in this, and there are people who can and want to help.

Get Help For Substance Abuse Today

Mental health disorders and addiction often co-occur. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of both, treatment is available. Call Detox Rehabs today to learn about treatment options.