Suicide is Preventable
Fear of disappointing others is the reason 49% of Americans are not seeking help.
The stigma around suicide causes many who have lived experiences of suicide to internalize their feelings of shame because of this perception of how they’re viewed by their peers and society.
Stigma also affects those bereaved by suicide. Misinformed reactions to suicide can result in avoidance and uncertainty about how to approach someone about their grief and loss. Many people bereaved by suicide find themselves avoiding the disclosure of the cause of death as a result of the anticipated stigmatized responses, which contributes to a lack of awareness in the community.
- The age-adjusted suicide rate in 2019 was 13.93 per 100,000 individuals.
- The rate of suicide is highest in middle-aged white men.
- In 2019, men died by suicide 3.63x as often as women.
- On average, there are 130 suicides per day.
- White males accounted for 69.38% of suicide deaths in 2019.
What can I do? Frequently Asked Questions About Suicide
- Act when you recognize suicide warnings, your help could make all the difference.
- Raise your voice. Don’t make survivors carry this weight by themselves. Fighting stigma and prejudice around mental illness is a part we can all play.
- Examine your thought processes and your understandings. Are they right? Could you be more sensitive to mental illness stigma?
- Use your social networks to discuss suicide and mental illness openly, share content on social media, and spread the word.
If you or someone you know is in crisis Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
- Use the online Lifeline Crisis Chatexternal icon
Both are free and confidential. You’ll be connected to a skilled, trained counselor in your area.
For more information, visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifelineexternal icon
You can also connect 24/7 to a crisis counselor by texting the Crisis Text Lineexternal icon. Text HOME to 741741.
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