Today, Sept. 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. For many, the subject of suicide is considered taboo and surrounded by stigma. They believe the mere mention of suicide around friends and family can cause suicidal thoughts for them. This is simply untrue.

World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10th. One of the ways to reduce the stigma around mental health and suicide is by talking about suicide and suicidal ideation, which can spur meaningful conversations about mental health and potentially save lives.

Did you know that suicide is the 2nd overall cause of death for young people ages 10-24 in the state of Virginia? However, suicide is also one of the leading causes of preventable death. Many of those considering suicide will give some sign of their intentions, either verbally or behaviorally. By knowing the warning signs and knowing how to help, you could save a life.

Join the conversation about suicide awareness and prevention and reach out to those who have been personally affected by suicide, raise awareness, and connect those struggling with suicidal ideation to professional counselors and treatment services that can help them.

If someone you love is struggling with depression or thinking about suicide, get help now. The 988 Suicide & Lifeline is a free resource, available 24 hours a day, for anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. There are trained counselors and mental health professionals available around the clock to assist anyone facing a mental health crisis.

The Jason Foundation (JFI) is another available resource.  Although September is the dedicated month for suicide prevention and awareness, JFI works toward suicide prevention all year long. JFI is dedicated to the awareness and prevention of youth suicide through educational programs that equip youth, parents, educators, and the community with the tools and resources to identify and assist at-risk youth. Visit The Jason Foundation’s website to learn more about youth suicide, the warning signs, and how you can help make a difference.  JFI has never charged a school, community, or individual for the use of its programs or resources.  http://www.jasonfoundation.com