Recognizing the Connection Between Mental Health And Suicide

Written by:  PROVISION
September is National Suicide Prevention Month.  It’s important that we recognize mental health related distress or suicidal thoughts happen to those around us, without the support or care they need.  In 2020, the United States had one death by suicide about every 11 minutes.  12.2 million seriously thought about suicide, while 3.2 million made a plan for suicide and 1.2 million attempted suicide.  People ages 10-34 years of age, suicide is the second leading cause of death.  Young adults go through significant stress transitioning as they gain more independence and responsibility when moving from home or going to college.  This has also been amplified with the Covid-19 pandemic.   

Those who attempt suicide and survive may suffer serious injuries physically and emotionally.  Suicide and suicide attempts also has an affect on friends, family and the community.  When someone dies by suicide, the surviving family and friends could feel anger, shock, or guilt and could also go into depression and need to seek help for themselves.   

But, there is hope.  Suicide is preventable, and we all have a role to play.  Open the lines of communication.  Reach out, ask questions like, “I’ve noticed you seem down lately.  What’s going on?” Or, “Hey, we haven’t talked in awhile.  How are you doing?”  Show interest in them, ask questions and listen to what they say.  Validate their views instead of shutting them down.  It doesn’t mean you agree with them, but it lets them know that you see them, you hear them and you understand. 

On July 16, 2020, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) established 988.  It’s an easy to remember 3 digit number for people in crisis to speak to counselors.  As a result, covered phone service and text providers in the United States and the five major US territories, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianna Islands Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands were required to direct all 988 calls and texts to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by July 16, 2022.  The centers are supported by local and state sources as well as the Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).  The 988 Lifeline provides confidential support to those in crisis or distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  When you call or text 988, you will connect to a health professional. 

If you or a friend are struggling with mental health distress or suicidal thoughts, call or text 988.  You can also contact the Alliance as www.asalliance.com or call 699-0272.  


“988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.” CDC Facts about Suicide, 2022, cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html. 
“Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 2021.” The Jed Foundation, 7 Sept. 2021, https://jedfoundation.org/suicide-prevention-awareness-month-2021/.