Published: September 9, 2020
September is suicide prevention month. To save a life, read about trigger events and free crisis phone line.
Suicide is a leading cause of death in the US. Suicide rates have increased more than 30% in the last 20 years. The COVID pandemic has spread uncertainty and distress and WHA has teamed up with behavioral health partner Magellan Health to offer free resources to address this public health crisis.
24-hour crisis line
There’s a free 24-hour crisis line crisis line offered to assist anyone coping with feelings of fear, sadness, anger, and hopelessness. The toll-free number to access free, confidential counseling services is: 1.800.327.7451 (TTY 711). You can speak to a certified licensed mental health clinician and get access to resources, such as community-based support.
Know events that can trigger suicidal thoughts
It is hard to know if a person is thinking about suicide. But you can look for warning signs and events that may trigger it:
- changes in life such as the death of a partner or good friend, retirement, divorce, or problems with money;
- diagnosis of a serious physical illness, such as cancer or heart disease, or a new physical disability;
- severe and long-lasting pain;
- loss of independence or not being able to get around without help;
- living alone or not having/wanting to be around friends or other social contacts.
If you’d like to take part, HopeRising.one has a Suicide Prevention virtual summit, Saturday, September 26 for skills and resources to positively impact suicide prevention efforts in your community.
Visit WHA’s mental health page for information and support.