Suicide Awareness: Starting the Conversation Can Save Lives
Each fall, Suicide Awareness Month in September serves as an important reminder to continue to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and inform our communities that help is available.
Suicide is a major public health concern, particularly among young people. In the United States, suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10–24. These numbers highlight the importance of recognizing when someone may be struggling and knowing how to connect them with support.
You Do Not Have to Struggle Alone
Many people experiencing emotional distress may struggle in silence. Simple conversations can make a difference. Checking in with a friend, family member, student, patient, or colleague can create an opportunity for someone to share what they are going through.
Learning about suicide warning signs and available resources can help us recognize when someone may need additional support. Organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provide information about warning signs, risk factors, and resources for individuals and families.
Know the Warning Signs
Know Where to Find Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis, support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can call or text 988 for free, confidential support.
Additional resources include:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): afsp.org
National Physician Suicide Awareness Day: npsaday.org
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay: http://www.crisiscenter.com
Suicide prevention starts with awareness, compassion, and connection. Take a moment this fall to check in with someone you care about, learn about the warning signs, and share resources with your community. Sometimes, simply letting someone know that they are not alone can be an important first step.
You can also check out mental health resources in Tampa Bay by checking out our Mental Health/Counseling Programs Page.
Would you like personalized assistance with finding and connecting to mental health resources? Complete our online referral form today!
Sujal Patel, MD
USF Pediatrics Resident, PGY-2
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