Suicide Prevention Week is September 9th through September 15th. During this week, individuals and organizations around the country and the world join their voices to broadcast the message that suicide can be prevented, and to reach as many people as possible with the tools and resources to support themselves and those around them.
Most of us have been touched by the tragedy of suicide. We may have lost someone close to us or been moved by the loss of someone we may have never met. When a suicide happens, those left behind often experience deep shock. However, many people who find themselves in a suicide crisis can and do recover. Suicide can be prevented, and you can help by taking the following actions:
- Know the Signs: Most people who are considering suicide show some warning signs or signals of their intentions. Learn to recognize these warning signs and how to respond to them by visiting the Know the Signs web site (www.suicideispreventable.org).
- Find the Words: If you are concerned about someone, ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. This can be difficult to do, but being direct provides an opportunity for them to open up and talk about their distress and will not suggest the idea to them if they aren't already thinking about it.
- Reach Out: You are not alone in this. Before having the conversation, become familiar with some resources to offer to the person you are concerned about. Visit the Reach Out section of the Know the Signs resources page to find California statewide and local resources in your county: www.suicideispreventable.org
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, help is available 24/7 by calling the Nevada County Crisis Line at (530) 265-5811 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255).
