National Suicide Prevention Month
The whole month of September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month.
Why is it important to acknowledge suicide and have prevention weeks and a prevention month? Well, this helps prevent suicide, reduces the stigma around mental health, and fosters compassion in people. Raising awareness around the topic of suicide will help people recognize signs of suicide in others and can also help individuals recognize that they need to seek help. Talking about mental health and the topic of suicide has greatly decreased the stigma around poor mental health and has allowed people to feel more comfortable talking to people. Talking about suicide also fosters compassion in people because this helps people learn how to empathize, be compassionate, and support those around them.
So, how can you as an individual observe suicide prevention week? First of all, raise awareness around the topic. Spread less commonly known facts and continue to spread the well-known facts too. Make sure people are constantly aware of signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts and weakening mental health. You can also educate yourself. Figure out how you can help around you. Help be the reason prevention increases in your area. Finally, continue to look out for those around you. If you know the signs and see some in your close friends, look out for them and try and help them as best as you can by pointing them to the correct resources.
Remember to Save the date – Waushara Run for Hope 5k Run/Walk May 28, 2022. All funds raised go back to REACH Waushara for Mental Health Programs in Waushara County.
