Recognizing September as National Suicide Prevention Month
September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month, a month dedicated to promoting awareness around suicide, sharing resources, and highlighting advocates and organizations such as Better Days Integrated Programs (BDIPS) that provide mental health services.
“Suicide is a heavy topic because it affects so many. Having a month dedicated to educating people about suicide and how it can be prevented is significant in helping to change the narrative about suicide altogether,” said Shonté Reeves, a licensed clinical social worker and chief Operating Officer at BDIPS.
According to a report released by UCLA’s Center for Health Policy Research, “suicide is a leading cause of death among adolescents ages 15–17 and young adults ages 18–24, collectively referred to as youth.”
Additionally, researchers in the report found that 24.6% of adolescents, ages 15–17, reported having had thoughts of suicide in their lifetime; and among young adults, ages 18–24, 30.8% reported having had thoughts of suicide in their lifetime.
“Suicide is the act of ending one's own life. For a lot of people, this is unfathomable, but for some, the thoughts surrounding suicide are an everyday occurrence. Most people who contemplate ending their life have lost hope; hope in life, hope in themselves, and hope in others,” Reeves shared.
Using data from the California Health Interview Survey, a report published by the Public Policy Institute of California found that of teens who participated in the study, one-third of students in the study reported chronic sadness, and 14.5% suicidal thoughts.
“In order to work towards prevention of suicide, it's important to instill hope by helping those who are struggling recognize that while their feelings are intense and distressing, they don't have to last forever,” Reeves said. “Its important for those who have never experienced suicidal thoughts or known anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts to know that there are other ways to deal with the distress that lead to thoughts and the act of suicide,” Reeves continued.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) shared warning signs of suicide among youth and teens. For teens, warning signs can show up as expressing hopelessness about the future; showing overwhelming emotional distress; and even physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and stomachaches.
In adults, warning signs may look like an adult talking about or making plans for suicide; acting anxious or behaving recklessly; increasing the use of alcohol or drugs; and showing extreme mood swings.
“Resources are available to support those who are struggling (hotlines, hospitals, therapists, psychiatrists). All of these resources can support someone who is contemplating ending their life. Families and loved ones should encourage their loved ones to seek out these resources and never give up hope on their loved ones. Being present makes a huge difference,” Reeves said.
Resources include the national 988 Lifeline, a free service that allows those in need to call, text, or chat (in English and in Spanish) with an experienced professional. For those who are deaf/ hard of hearing, the 988 Videophone can be accessed by calling 988 with a videophone number.
Other resources include the California Peer Run Warm Line, a peer-led support that aims to reduce stigma and support those experiencing a range of challenges including anxiety, depression, and substance use. Any California resident can call or text 855-600-WARM(9276) to speak with a counselor.
BDIPS also offers a variety of mental health services to children, teens and adults, as well as different online and in-person groups for those who need community support. For more information on how to access these resources needed from BDIPS, learn more by visiting bdips.org.