September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and Monday was World Suicide Prevention Day.
According to DoSomething.org, suicide is the third leading cause of death for kids ages 10 to 14 years old. For every one suicide there are 25 suicide attempts, and 44,965 Americans die every year from suicide.
Barbara Davis works with students by offering emotional support.
DMS counselor Barbara Davis gave her thoughts on what this month means to her.
“It is critical that we’re aware suicide exists.” Davis said. “We need to be aware of the people around, take in their feeling and moods.”
Suicidal thoughts should not be a joke, or something shrugged off, Davis said. Every suicide is a tragedy. Suicidal thoughts are a serious issue and there are resources available to help.
Those needing help, can talk to a counselor or trusted adult. If someone don’t feel comfortable talking to anyone, they can call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8225 or text HOME to The Crisis Text Line 741741. These numbers are staffed 24/7 by trained crisis counselors, according to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline website.
If you are worried you know someone who might be going through this don’t keep it a secret, tell a trusted adult.
No matter what someone looks like, his or her sexuality, what gender he or she is, or who his or her friends are, everyone is important. September is a great time to appreciate the people in your life, and let them know how much they mean to you. Whether it’s suicide prevention day, or just your ordinary Monday morning, appreciating everyone is important.
( resources: https://www.dosomething.org/us/facts/11-facts-about-suicide, https://afsp.org/about-suicide/suicide-statistics/, https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ )
