Shining a Light on Hope: Suicide Prevention Month 2024
September 23, 2024 – 5 min read
By Venessa D. Anderson-Abram, MBA, CPS, WH, WRAP, QPR, CRM, YMHFA, AMHFA

Tagged: Suicide Prevention, Mental Health Awareness, Community Support
Embracing Hope and Healing

As we near the end of September, we at Self Discovery: Pain, Positioning, And Purpose (SDP3) continue to acknowledge the importance of Suicide Prevention Month. This month reminds us of the importance of mental health awareness and the power of community support in preventing suicide.

The Reality of Suicide in America

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with over 48,000 Americans dying by suicide each year. It’s the second leading cause of death for those between the ages of 10 and 34. These statistics are more than numbers – they represent lives, families, and communities forever changed.

Breaking the Stigma

One of the most significant barriers to suicide prevention is the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide. At SDP3, we believe that knowledge is power. By educating the masses, we can break down these barriers and create a society where seeking help for mental health concerns is as normal and accepted as seeking help for physical ailments.

The Power of Conversation

Our motto, “When we know better, we do better,” shows the importance of education and open dialogue. Having direct, caring conversations about mental health can be lifesaving. We encourage everyone to learn the warning signs of suicide and how to have meaningful conversations about mental health.

Taking Action
This Suicide Prevention Month, we invite you to join us in taking action:

• 1. Learn the Warning Signs: Educate yourself about the risk factors and warning signs of suicide.
• 2. Reach Out: If you’re concerned about someone, don’t hesitate to ask directly if they’re thinking about suicide.
• 3. Spread Awareness: Share resources and information about suicide prevention on your social media platforms.
• 4. Volunteer: Consider volunteering with SDP3 or your local suicide prevention organization.
• 5. Donate: Support organizations working tirelessly in suicide prevention efforts.

Resources Always Available
Remember, help is always available. The SDP3 lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.

– SDP3 Lifeline: 470-785-3565
– Email: stopsuicide@sd-ppp.org

Join Our Mission

At SDP3, our mission is to raise awareness of Mental Health and Wellness, Bullying, Substance Use Disorder, Recovery, Suicide Prevention and Awareness. We envision a world where the stigma around mental illness is eliminated, and suicide is preventable.

This Suicide Prevention Month, let’s come together as a community to spread hope, increase understanding, and save lives. Remember, your voice matters in this crucial conversation.

Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can save lives.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for help immediately. Your life matters.

988 or 911…ask for a Crisis Intervention Trained Officer.