In September, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness.
National Suicide Prevention Month aims to spread information and resources about suicide to those who may feel like they have run out of options in dealing with their mental health.
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On Aug. 10, U.S. News and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a report that stated that suicide rates continue to rise in America.
Their website reported that 49,449 Americans lost their lives to suicide in 2022, up from 48,183 deaths in 2021.
In Houston, those in need of help can reach out to the Crisis Intervention of Houston, Inc. The organization operates free, confidential, anonymous crisis and suicide prevention counseling.
They also offer the only Survivor of Suicide Support Group serving Houston/Harris County and immediate surrounding counties.
They can be reached at (832) 416-1177.
Teens can call (832) 416-1199 or text (281) 201-4430.
SEE ALSO: Preventing suicide in Houston: These are resources everyone needs to know
How can you recognize the signs of suicide risk, and help a loved one?
The CDC offered five key steps:
- Don’t be afraid to ask. Many people might be reticent to inquire whether a friend or family member is having thoughts of suicide. But research shows that asking such questions decreases, rather than increases that risk.
- Help keep them safe. Reducing the person’s access to lethal means can go a long way to preventing a tragedy.
- Stay in touch. Suicidal thoughts thrive in isolation — being there for your loved one can help protect against suicide, experts say.
- Encourage them to reach out for help. People in crisis who called 988 were more likely to experience a lessening of depression, and feel less helpless and more hopeful at the end of the call.
- Follow up. After connecting the person in crisis with the support system they need, don’t stop reaching out and checking in. Maintaining a presence in their life can reduce your loved one’s odds for suicide.
Additional help in and around the Houston area
If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
LGBT Switchboard Houston: 713-529-3211
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Greater Houston: 713-970-4483
Suicide Prevention - VA Houston Health Care: 800-273-8255
Texas Youth Helpline: 855-311-1790
Harris County Sheriff’s Department Crisis: (713) 221-6000
Texana Center (Fort Bend County)
Crisis Hotline (Fort Bend) (800) 633-5686
Montgomery County 24-hr Crisis: 1-800-659-6994
Para llamadas en Espanol: 1-888-628-9454
Mental Health America of Greater Houston
If you’re a veteran in the Houston area
Houston Suicide Prevention Office
Available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
VA Houston health care
Phone: 713-794-7002
Email: HOUSPC@va.gov
Education and further resources
- National Institute of Mental Health definitions, resources, and more
- Chat at 988lifeline.org