By NAMI Southwest Washington
September is a month of transition, as summer slowly yields to the embrace of autumn. It’s also a month dedicated to a profoundly important cause — suicide awareness and prevention. As we embark on 2023’s Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, it is imperative that we address the critical issues surrounding mental health and join hands to create hope through action. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of this month, delve into this year’s theme, and discuss how we can all play a part in making a difference.
Remember you can “Take Action” by joining us for our Shine the Light Suicide Prevention and Awareness Summit on September 12th @ the Clark County YMCA.
The Significance of September:
September was chosen to bring attention to the alarming statistics surrounding suicide. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 800,000 people die by suicide each year, making it the second leading cause of death among young people aged 15-29 globally. In the United States, suicide rates have been steadily rising over the past two decades. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent the lives of individuals, families, and communities affected by the devastating consequences of suicide.
This Year’s Theme | “Creating Hope Through Action”
The theme for this year’s Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, “Creating Hope Through Action,” emphasizes the power of collective effort in making a change. It encourages us to move beyond awareness and into action. Hope is the catalyst that can inspire individuals to seek help, support, and treatment. This theme serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in suicide prevention.
What can you do to “Take Action”?
Start Conversations: One of the most powerful actions you can take is to initiate open and non-judgmental conversations about mental health with friends, family, and colleagues. By discussing these issues, you can help reduce stigma and encourage those in need to seek help.
Learn the Signs: Educate yourself about the warning signs of suicidal behavior. Being able to recognize these signs in others can make a crucial difference in saving lives. Common signs include withdrawal, increased substance abuse, and expressing feelings of hopelessness.
Support Mental Health Services: Advocate for improved access to mental health services in your community. This can include supporting local organizations, volunteering, or advocating for mental health policy changes.
Take Care of Yourself: Self-care is essential. Ensure you are taking care of your own mental health, as this can indirectly influence those around you. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Remove Access to Lethal Means: If you are concerned about someone’s safety, help them remove access to lethal means such as firearms, prescription medications, or other potentially harmful items.
Promote Awareness: Share information and resources related to suicide awareness and prevention on social media, in your workplace, or within your community. The more people know, the more lives we can potentially save.
Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month is a time to reflect on the importance of mental health, empathy, and the power of collective action. This year’s theme, “Creating Hope Through Action,” reminds us that hope is not passive; it’s an active force that can be generated through our actions. By fostering awareness, providing support, and promoting mental health, we can create a world where every individual feels valued, understood, and hopeful. Let us come together to make a positive change, one action at a time, and work towards a future where lives are saved and hope is abundant.
Click the image to be taken to the Shine the Light webpage!
