According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 800,000 people die by suicide yearly, equating to one death every 40 seconds. In 2022, suicide rates increased in America by 2.6%, taking the lives of 49,449 Americans. An estimated 15% of those deaths involved children and individuals aged 10 through 24. September is Suicide Prevention Month, and it’s critical that the United States fosters hope and increases prevention efforts in the face of this public health crisis.
Reach Out for Help: The Most Important First Step to Take
Creating Hope Through Action, the theme for Suicide Prevention Month 2023, spreads the message that suicide is not a choice that anyone should ever consider. Instead, they must be reminded and encouraged to embrace life even in the dark and challenging moments they are experiencing. Through heightened awareness and collective action, EAC Network, as well as the country as a whole, strives to show those suffering that help is available.
EAC Network’s Supportive Services Offer Hope
Life’s challenges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Suicide risk factors can arise from various difficulties, including mental health issues, substance use, emotional pain, and legal troubles. EAC Network’s programs are here to walk with you, offering practical steps toward recovery and elevated mental health. With a mission to heal, uplift, and empower, we want to see New York achieve a more promising future and a stronger foundation that allows everyone to take on life’s challenges.
Destigmatizing Mental Health
One of the most formidable barriers to suicide prevention is the stigma associated with mental health issues. Although we have become more accepting and aware as a society, many people hesitate to seek help when it’s needed. A deep-seated fear of judgment or discrimination causes silent suffering. Suicide Prevention Month challenges this stigma by promoting open dialogues about mental health. When we understand that mental health changes over time, just like physical health, we can create an environment where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Support and Resources
National Suicide Prevention Month is not solely about spreading awareness; it’s also about connecting those in need with the appropriate support systems. Formally known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers support to people across the country in a suicidal crisis situation or emotional distress.
Connect with a trained crisis counselor. Everything is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365.
Call or Text 988
Chat online at 988lifeline.org
Beyond National Suicide Prevention Month: Sustained Efforts Are the Only Hope
While National Suicide Prevention Month is a start, our efforts must become a year-round commitment to ongoing support, education, and advocacy. Initiatives like destigmatizing mental health, improving access to mental health care, and promoting self-care need to become a priority in our daily lives.
For the many individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts or feelings of isolation, don’t make your pain an invisible secret. You are not alone. We acknowledge your struggles, and help is always available.
Contact EAC Network to learn more about our services and how they can help you on a path to recovery.
