September Awareness: Suicide Prevention
September 10th marks World Suicide Prevention Day. A day in which we raise awareness for and find ways to prevent suicide.
Why Is This a Problem?
Suicide and Its Causes
Suicide is death caused by the harm of one’s own actions. To put this into perspective, Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death — costing 130 deaths every day. It is often caused by mental disorders, irresponsible use of alcohol or drugs, family conflicts, long-term diseases, and feelings of great loneliness.
How We Can Help
Recognize warning signs, help your friends, and be kind. Preventing suicide is not an easy task, but it can be accomplished if everyone does their part to help. Look for the following signs in those around you…
Common Suicide Warning Signs:
Self-harm
Big change in behavior
Not being able to concentrate
Increased interest in harmful items (drugs, alcohol, weapons)
If you recognize any of these behaviors in someone, tell a trusted adult immediately. By doing just that, you could save a life.
Mental health is important to talk about. YOU can help advocate for it by…
Creating a Mental Health Club at your school
Encouraging your school to have suicide prevention talks
Encouraging your school to increase mental health advocation (Honor World Suicide Prevention Day and Red Ribbon Week)
Talk about it! Repost our posts on social media to get people talking and knowledgeable!
Want to Learn More?
Visit https://www.samhsa.gov/suicide to discover more about suicide and how to prevent it.
How YOU Can Help!
Look out for your friends, family, and peers — you never know what someone is going through. Do not be afraid to speak up! Help others understand the causes of suicide and spread awareness. Please see resources below:
You Are Not Alone: There Is Always Help
Help For YOU
Contact National Suicide Prevention Line at anytime.
If you are considering reaching out, please read our note here.
You can always contact us at connectwithyesterday@gmail.com, too.
Help for OTHERS
If someone is in immediate danger, please call 911 or your local police force.
Talk to them and be an active listener.
Learn more about how you can help here.
Donations & Petitions
Demand Suicide Prevention Talks Petition
Having this problem at your school? Use it as inspiration. Start a petition for your school to talk about mental health and suicide.