by Kevin Zimmermann
(WHBL) – September is Suicide Prevention Month, a yearly focus to shed light on preventable tragedy. And an even sharper focus on the issue will take place Thursday on World Suicide Prevention Day.
Our state is not alone in seeing a spike in suicides during the pandemic, but suicide is not only a pandemic issue, and sadly, it’s a significant problem with young people. Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health Director Linda Hall said that the overall suicide rate of badger state youth is higher than the national average. She noted that approximately one in 13 high school students attempts suicide more than once, and 45% of adolescents who died by suicide used a parent’s gun.
One goal of the annual awareness campaign is to inform people of the problem and what can be done, and five actions are recommended to help those in emotional pain. Those include asking the person if they’re considering suicide; be present to give support; keep the person safe; help connect them with resources and follow up to see how they’re doing and to show you care.
People in suicidal crisis or emotional distress can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK(8255) or text HOPELINE to 741741 for support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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