CFNN Reporter Ava Nelson

11 minutes. That’s less than an episode of your favorite show. In the time you watch one average episode of a show 2  people have lost their lives to suicide. September is suicide prevention month.This is meant to raise awareness for this dire issue. Suicide affects people of every age, race, and gender in the world. This month is extremely important to those who have lost a loved one to suicide.

This month consists of suicide prevention week as well as a day dedicated to this widespread issue. Suicide prevention week begins on the 5th and the day dedicated is the 10th. Our goal, through this article, is to inform and educate people on suicide prevention and awareness, as well as identify some signs to look for in loved ones who may be contemplating suicide.

Being kind is the first step in preventing suicide. Being a loving individual to everyone in your day-to-day life is vital, because, so often, we have no idea what struggles others endure. One simple act of kindness can make someone rethink his or her decision. The one thing we have all been told since our youth is “treat others as you would like to be treated.” This aphorism is truly apropos in our current situation. Check-in on those around you if you see someone struggling ask what you can do to help or what they need from you.

Oftentimes people who are struggling mentally and who attempt suicide don’t necessarily want to die, but instread want to end their pain or struggle and see suicide as the only way out. People who struggle with mental illness, chronic pain, trauma, substance abuse, or the loss of a loved one may feel like a burden to others and feel like suicide is an answer.

According to the CDC, suicide is the second leading cause of death for Americans ages 10-34, the fourth leading cause for ages 35-44 and, the fifth leading cause for ages 45-54. In 2019 alone there were over 47,500 deaths due to suicide and even more attempts. 

Suicide and mental illness are still viewed as “taboo” topics. It is absolutely vital that they be brought to light, considering the importance of the issue. To think that suicide is a leading cause of death for any age group is eye opening, but it is also extremely sad. Suicide is something that can be prevented. By simply being kind and spreading awareness you never know how many lives you could be saving.