This month is National Suicide Prevention Awareness month. Despite all of the resources available to people, suicide continues to happen at unacceptable rates. The nation saw a rise in suicide attempts and completions, secondary to the stressors encountered in attempting to deal with the COVID pandemic.
Although the COVID infection and death rates have decreased from the height of the pandemic, people are still subject to the threat of contracting the virus. This stressor, on top of financial pressures, changes in lifestyle, and the unknowns of the future are but a few of the added challenges contributing to the potential for suicide. Everyone has their own set of challenges before them that can create a burden where this becomes an option in their mind.
Please take this month to learn more about Suicide and what you can do to help prevent it. If you see someone struggling ask how they are doing? If you yourself are struggling, seek the help you need – don’t be ashamed. This impacts all walks of life and crosses all boundaries. Suicide doesn’t care if you are a First Responder, Military Veteran, or any other career or life path. It doesn’t care how much money you have, the color of your skin, or where you live. The thought can be present in anyone.
There are people who care and are willing to help. If you need it – get it. If you see someone that needs it – offer it and connect them to those that can help. You can make a difference.