Suicide Prevention

September is National Suicide Prevention Month

This wraps up the five action steps shared throughout this month to help raise awareness around suicide prevention. 

If you know someone who is contemplating suicide:

  • Know the Signs
  • Call 911 if in an emergency situation
  • Call the 24-hour hotline for support: 1-800-273-8255

HOW AND WHY THE 5 STEPS CAN HELP, click or go to https://www.bethe1to.com/bethe...

En Español 

The five action steps for communicating with someone who may be suicidal are supported by evidence in the field of suicide prevention. 

Step 1: ASK

Step 2: BE THERE

Step 3: KEEP THEM SAFE

Step 4: HELP THEM CONNECT

Step 5:

FOLLOW UP

Why – This type of contact can continue to increase their feelings of connectedness and share your ongoing support. There is evidence that even a simple form of reaching out, like sending a caring postcard, can potentially reduce their risk for suicide.

Studies have shown a reduction in the number of deaths by suicide when following up was involved with high risk populations after they were discharge from acute care services. Studies have also shown that brief, low cost intervention and supportive, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention. Please visit our Follow-Up Matters page for more.

#MSDCares