Suicidal thoughts and actions can affect anyone, anywhere at any time. Suicide is not inevitable. We can all help prevent suicide. Anyone can be a light for someone who may be experiencing thoughts of suicide. Suicide Prevention Awareness Month offers an opportunity to create hope, reach out, and take action. It is time to remember those affected by suicide and to raise awareness for those who need it. Be the One.

• Over 49,000 people died by suicide in 2022. That is one death every 11 minutes.
• Many adults think about suicide or attempt suicide.
• 13.2 million seriously thought about suicide.
• 3.8 million made a plan for suicide.
• 1.6 million attempted suicide.

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
• Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
• Talking about being a burden to others
• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Withdrawing or isolating themselves
• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
• Extreme mood swings

Mercer County Behavioral Health: 724-662-2227

http://www.mercercountybhc.org/

Lawrence County Human Services Center: 724-652-9000

https://humanservicescenter.net/

Butler County Center for Community Resources: 1-800-292-3866

https://ccrinfo.org/services/24-hour-crisis-services/

9/8 marks the inaugural 988 Day! This annual event is dedicated to spreading awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and emphasizing the importance of #mentalhealth support. Use #988Day to share how the #988Lifeline is about “No Judgment. Just Help.” See how you can participate: Samhsa.gov/988Day. #mentalhealthawareness #suicideprevention

Bryda Drumm, LSW, H&SV, C-SSW

Jennifer Guthrie, LCSW, CSSW

Sara Joseph, MSW, LSW, CSSW

Email: socialwork@miu4.org