Dear Cobb Collaborative Network:
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Alarmingly, our nation’s suicide rate increased by 4% between 2020 and 2021 after two years of decline and suicide is now the second leading cause of death in the United States for people between 10 and 34, according to the CDC. When looking at these statistics, it's also important to remember that statistics represent people and lives lost.
We are all stakeholders in the fight against suicide. There are actions we can take individually and as a community to save lives. First things first: If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call or text 988 to be connected to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. The Lifeline is comprised of a national network of over 200 local crisis centers, combining custom local care and resources with national standards and best practices. 988 support is available in English and Spanish.
(If someone you know is in imminent danger, please call 911 immediately!)
The following the steps can be implemented to make a positive impact and prevent suicide:
❓ ASK - Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone ask them in a caring way.
✔️ KEEP THEM SAFE - A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline.
🤝 BE THERE - Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed and more hopeful after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.
🔗 HELP THEM STAY CONNECTED - Studies indicate that helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.
🗨️ FOLLOW UP- Studies have shown that brief, low cost intervention and supporting, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention.
Cobb Collaborative and The SAM Foundation are presenting Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR): Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Training on September 11 from 6:15-7:30PM at South Cobb Regional Library. Please join us for this impactful training that helps to save lives.
Interested in bringing a Mind Your Mind mental health training to your business/group? Please visit our MYM Training Opportunities web page for more information.
It is also important to know that asking for help is okay. Whether you are dealing with mental health issues personally or caring for a friend or family member, the situation can feel overwhelming and hopeless. Our Mind Your Mind and Suicide Prevention web pages provide access to information and local resources to help you navigate your situation.
Warmly,
Irene Barton
Cobb Collaborative Executive Director
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