World Suicide Prevention Day
This week is National Suicide Prevention Week and today is World Suicide Prevention Day. This day and this week present an opportunity to act, spread awareness, and remember family, friends, partners, and other members of our community we lost to suicide. Young people, veterans, and LGBTQ+ individuals — and queer and trans people of color in particular — represent a disproportionate number of people who attempt or complete suicide. In 2019, suicide was the second leading cause of death for people 44 and younger.
As we face a global mental health crisis in the wake of COVID-19, we must not forget structural factors that contribute to feelings of isolation, depression and suicidality: stigma, racism and bigotry, trauma, poverty, housing and employment insecurity – the list goes on.
We must address these factors and eliminate stigma. If you or someone you love is struggling with thoughts of self harm or suicide, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-7273-8255 for free and confidential support. This Suicide Prevention Day, please join me in honoring the memory of those we lost, and in extending care and support to the people who loved them.