May is Mental Health Month

May is Mental Health Month and no conversation in mental health is more important than one about suicide. Let’s start with some general information; some statistics about suicide in the US.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide was responsible for nearly 49,000 deaths in 2021. That is one death every 11 minutes. In the same year, 12.3 million American adults seriously considered suicide, 3.5 planned an attempt and 1.7 attempted suicide. Suicide affects all ages and is among the leading causes of death for people ages 10-64.

Suicide is not easy to talk about and it certainly is not easy to tell someone you are considering suicide. Know that there is hope and help, even when you are feeling hopeless and helpless. Please make the bravest choice you have ever made and tell someone. Sharing your thoughts and feelings is very important. You do not need to struggle alone. There are lots of ways to get help. Here are a few ways to reach out at any time; 24/7/365:

  1. Text: HOME or HELP to 741741. A trained counselor will speak with you via text.
  2. Call 988 and a mental health professional will hear your concerns and be able to connect you with services in your own area.
  3. Dial 911. It is there for emergencies.
  4. Use your local ER by walk-in. Tell them what is going on with you.
  5. Call 855-990-1900 or walk-in to Lake Behavioral Hospital any time.

Know that you can call 211 to learn more about helping resources for all mental health and other issues, but the crisis numbers are listed above.

Please don’t think you are alone. There are helpers waiting to hear your story. You are worth it.

There are people ready to help you at any time of day.

  • Text HOME to 741741 for a free, confidential conversation with a trained counselor any time of day.
  • If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, text or call 988 or use the chat function at org.
  • If this is a medical emergency or if there is immediate danger of harm, call 911 and explain that you need support for a mental health crisis.
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