September 11-16, 2017
According to the CDC, suicide is the second leading cause of death for individuals ages 10-34. Suicide is a serious public health problem that can have lasting harmful effects on individuals, families, and communities. While the causes of suicide are complex and determined by multiple factors, the goal of suicide prevention is simple:
- Reduce risk factors (things that trigger thoughts of suicide) and
- Increase protective factors (things that prevent suicide).
The best way to increase protective factors is to develop a strong support system that encourages open communication. Support systems can include families, neighbors, church communities, community resources, sports teams, friends and work colleagues.
Ways to be present when someone is having thoughts of suicide:
- Contact community resources with them
- Go with them to tell a trusted adult or mental health professional
- Sit with them until help arrives
- Listen to them talk about the ‘bad’ before you give them suggestions about the ‘good’.
Resources available in the St. Louis Area:
- Behavioral Health Response – 314.469.6644
- Kids Under Twenty One – 314.644.5886
- Life Crisis – 314.647.4357
- St. Louis County Youth Connection Helpline – TEXT: 4HLP to 31658
- St. Louis City Youth Connection Helpline – TEXT: 2TALK to 31658