September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.

Each year, more than 41,000 individuals die by suicide, leaving behind their friends and family members to navigate the tragedy of loss. In many cases, friends and families affected by a suicide loss (often called “suicide loss survivors”) are left in the dark. Too often the feelings of shame and stigma prevent them from talking openly.

• Know the Warning Signs and Risk of Suicide

• Preventing Suicide as a Family Member or Caregiver

• Being Prepared for a Crisis

• Need more information, referrals or support? Contact the NAMI HelpLine.

• If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately.

• If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255)

• If you’re uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can also text NAMI to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line.

Retrieved September 07, 2017, from https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Suicide-Prevention-Awareness-Month