The Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network (TSPN), Carey Counseling Center, and their allies in public health, mental health, and social services are joining forces to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. During this annual observance, TSPN and its allies urge all citizens to work to prevent suicide and raise awareness and tolerance around all people affected by this tragic act.
According to TSPN, public awareness of this serious problem is the key to preventing further suffering and loss of life. The risk for human self-destruction can be reduced through awareness, education, and treatment. They urge Tennesseans to work to eliminate the stigma of suicide, to educate themselves about the warning signs of suicide, and to work toward reducing the rate of suicide in our state.
Observance of Suicide Prevention Month encourages the general public to learn more about the problem of suicide and how it can be prevented. It also gives us an opportunity to remember those lost to suicide; to encourage survivors of suicide, survivors of suicide attempts, and people who have triumphed over mental illness; and to recognize individuals who have made notable contributions to suicide prevention efforts in our state.
In almost all cases, suicide attempts can be traced to unrecognized, untreated, or poorly treated mental health issues. Suicide can happen to males or females, of any race, ethnicity, or economic status. The average suicide death leaves behind at least six devastated survivors, family and friends of the deceased. The highest risk for successful suicide is among those who have survived a past attempt and those who have lost a loved one to suicide.
Detailed information about suicide prevention efforts and strategies is available at www.tspn.org. For any non-emergency information on suicide prevention, contact TSPN at 731-415-3812 or [email protected]. If you or someone you know is at risk for self-harm, immediately call 800-273-8255 for help.
