September is one very important month in the mental health community: National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This month gives a highly stigmatized topic a dedicated time to have people shed light and share resources to bring a new light and a new level of awareness to the cause.
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in America and affects more than 44,000 people's family, friends, and loved ones; Ages 15-34, suicide ranked second leading cause of death. As a society talking about death and illness is very discouraged but a light should be shed on these illnesses to help those fighting and their loved ones receive help and be more comfortable talking about this. Many companies such as To Write Love on Her Arms and NAMI are using this month to raise awareness of the different types of help that people can get as well as trying to de-stigmatize suicide.
Although suicide is important to bring awareness to year round, this month enhances the opportunity for people to find out more about this difficult topic. With the ages 15-34 having suicide as the second leading cause of death, it is extremely important for peers and family members to learn more about what can cause someone to reach that point as well as how to get their loved one help if they ask for it or see the warning signs. Many online resources are available to educate the world year round and are marketed mostly during this month, personal stories are posted, toolboxes are available and different events are planned to raise awareness.
Reaching out and giving loved ones the support they need and the ability to get help and be comfortable asking for help is extremely important. Knowing the warning signs and talking to someone if you see the signs can help prevent someone to follow their thoughts. TV, social media, movies, news, peers and mental illness can all play a part in someone's decision.
Suicide is a growing issue and for more people to have an understanding of the impact, the causes, and the ability to ask for help can help to lower the number of people taking their lives each year.