Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Rick Worthington
Rick Worthington
Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to share resources and stories in an effort to shed light on this highly taboo and stigmatized topic.

Farmers are 60 percent more likely to commit suicide than the general public. While suicide rates have not improved, there have been changes that offer hope for the future.

Dr. Michael Rosmann is a farmer and a psychologist, and says farmer suicides remain a serious problem but attitudes and awareness have changed.

Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.

Every year thousands of individuals die by suicide, leaving behind their friends and family members to navigate the tragedy of loss. In many cases, friends and families affected by a suicide loss (often called "suicide loss survivors") are left in the dark. Too often the feelings of shame and stigma prevent them from talking openly.

If you - or - someone you know is considering suicide, there is help available 24 hours a day... The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 800 273 8255

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