Photo provided by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
By: Paige Heller, Head Editor
The month may be ending but it’s important to note that September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness month. It’s vital for us to help share awareness and support for people who may struggle with this.
Suicide is a heavier mental health topic but is one of the most crucial ones to focus on. Although we are aware that it happens, we rarely learn information about it. The following statistics are from provided by the CDC from a 2023 report.
- Over 49,000 people died by suicide in 2023.
- There is 1 death every 11 minutes.
- 12.8 million seriously thought about suicide.
- 3.7 million planned for suicide.
- 1.5 million attempted suicide.
Even though it is not publicized, many struggle or have lost with this battle. Although there might be information about it online, there are communities that don’t get enough awareness. One of those communities being men. With there being a stigma around men sharing their feelings, they often get looked past when they are struggling. In 2023, it was reported that men’s suicide rate was four times higher than women with making up 80% of suicides.
I wanted to share these statistics to help bring awareness to the severity of suicide to help with prevention measures during this month. Even though this month is coming to an end, it’s important that we continue to promote suicide prevention awareness every month.
Lastly, as someone who has had these thoughts, I want to share some reminders to anyone who might be struggling:
- You are worthy. Nothing and no one can define your worth. You have been worthy since the day you were born.
- Lean on the ones who care. It might be hard to open up to someone or you may not want to burden someone with these thoughts, but the people who love you are here to help you no matter what. In addition, it will help you unload some weight that you may be feeling.
- The world is a better place with you in it. Even if you may feel like no one will notice, I promise you they will. You add a light to this world, and it shouldn’t be dimmed.
- You are enough. Don’t let the inside or outside voices tell you otherwise.
- Give yourself empathy like you do for others. When I was at this point, I never cared for myself or even showed any self-love but when I started to it helped. It reminded me that at the end of the day I deserve all the love that I give out to others.
Please make sure to check up on loved ones and to remind them that you are always there for them. If you know someone who may be struggling, offer help and learn more about the topic to ensure you properly help them.
If you might be struggling with these thoughts, please know you are not alone. The world is a better place with you in it. Listed below are some resources that can help:
Suicidal Crisis Support- International Association for Suicide Prevention
Suicide Prevention in San Antonio
Suicide Prevention Resources- CDC
You can also contact the hotline at 988.
