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September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. The Breaking Through Task Force recognizes this a time to shed light on this highly  stigmatized topic. This month offers a special opportunity to reach out to those affected by suicide, raise public awareness and link individuals with suicidal ideation to services. We also want to ensure that individuals have access to the resources they need to appropriately discuss suicide prevention.

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Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. Suicide is often the outcome of a mental health problem that has not been treated. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.

 

Every year individuals die by suicide, leaving behind their friends and family to process and navigate the loss. Too often the feelings of shame and stigma prevent these individuals from talking openly.

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Suicide is not inevitable for anyone. By starting the conversation, providing support, and directing help to those who need it, we can prevent suicides and save lives.

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ALWAYS Call 9-1-1 in case of an emergency

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National Suicide Hotline

1.800.273.TALK (8255)

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Crisis Text Line

text NAMI to 741-741 

Suicide & Crisis Resources

RISK FACTORS

Risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely that someone will consider, attempt, or die by suicide. They can't cause or predict a suicide attempt, but they're important to be aware of.

  • Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders

  • Alcohol and other substance use disorders

  • Hopelessness

  • Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies

  • History of trauma or abuse

  • Major physical illnesses

  • Previous suicide attempt(s)

  • Family history of suicide

  • Job or financial loss

  • Loss of relationship(s)

  • Easy access to lethal means

  • Local clusters of suicide

  • Lack of social support and sense of isolation

  • Stigma associated with asking for help

  • Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment

  • Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma

  • Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in real life or via the media and Internet)

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WARNING SIGNS

Some warning signs may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help by calling the Lifeline.

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves

  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun

  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain

  • Talking about being a burden to others

  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs

  • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly

  • Sleeping too little or too much

  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves

  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

  • Extreme mood swings

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