#BeThe1To Help
September is National Suicide Prevention Month
Part 1 of 2
Suicide is a growing public health issue. According to the CDC, it is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. Risks are numerous and range from chronic pain and illness, to substance abuse, to prolonged and significant stress.
(Chronic pain and opioid abuse are two reasons the APTA’s hashtag — #ChoosePT — is so powerful.)
Suicide affects all ages and demographics, with some groups represented in disproportionate numbers. It is a serious concern for those in our community who provide care and treatment for people at risk.
Suicide is also preventable. The National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and their partners, are working to change the conversation from suicide to suicide prevention.
This month, learn more about how you can #BeThe1To help someone through crisis. Learn the 5 steps. Use the fantastic social media and other resources to spread this message in your community.
You can find additional information in the Suicide Prevention Primer by guest blogger, Melissa Howard. Special thanks to her for providing the lighthouse image from her website.
If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. It is available for everyone. It’s free. It’s confidential.
