September is suicide prevention month and the purpose of this prevention month is to bring awareness to this national public health issue, provide resources and tools to help people notice when someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts or actions, and to help them identify the appropriate resources to help prevent suicide.
In the U.S., approximately 123 people die each day by suicide. That is about 45,000 deaths each year. Among those deaths, around 90% of individuals had an underlying mental health condition (depression, stress, bipolar disorder, etc.). Suicide does not discriminate based on age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religion.
In Kansas, approximately one person dies by suicide every 16 hours. Suicide is the 9th leading cause of death in our state and in 2020, 556 people died by suicide. More people in the state of Kansas died by suicide than alcohol related car accidents in 2020.
Suicide can impact individuals, families, and communities. Everyone can help prevent suicide if they are willing to take action and ask the right questions, persuade individuals to seek help and treatment, and refer them to the most appropriate resources. Suicide is preventable.
Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will not put the thought into their or increase their risk of dying by suicide. If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and needs assistance, please call the National Suicide Hotline 1-800-273-8255 or to message the Crisis Text Line, text HOME to 741741 for 24/7 support.
Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. For suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention (QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact Rebecca McFarland (QPR) or Rachael Clews (MHFA) with K-State Research and Extension.
National Resources
• https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
• https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day/past-events/2019/resources-suicide-prevention
State Resources
• https://www.sprc.org/states/kansas
Local Resources
• The Center for Counseling and Consultation. 24/7 Crisis line –620-792-2544 or 800-875-8544
Alicia Boor is the Agriculture and Natural Resources agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her by email at aboor@ksu.eduor call 620-793-1910.
