In 2008, September was named National Suicide Prevention Month Awareness Month, with the official day falling on Sept. 10.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 41,000 individuals die from suicide. It is the 10th leading cause of death among adults in the U.S. and is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-24.
Since 2002, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has conducted ‘Out of the Darkness Walks’, where communities and colleges across the country walk miles to raise awareness.
The National Institute of of Mental Health stresses the importance of looking out for warning signs of suicidal thoughts. Talking about death, great guilt or shame and feeling like a burden; feeling empty and hopeless or extreme sadness; changes in behavior, such as making plans or researching ways to die, withdrawing from friends or taking dangerous risks such as excessive substance use. The CDC has stated that roughly 12.8 Million people have seriously considered suicide, and it is estemated there is 1 death by suicide every 11 minutes.
While this month shines a spotlight on the realities of suicide, it is an issue that is important year round.
If you or someone you know find themselves struggling, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988.
Christopher Newport University (CNU) also offers a variety of help services. Contact CNU Counseling Services at (757)-594-7047 or CNU Police Department at (757)-594-7777.
