Talking about suicide can be uncomfortable.

It can be painful.

It can save the life of someone you love.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness month. That means it’s a great time to remember one honest conversation can be the change for somebody you care about.

A silent crisis.

Everyone deserves to have good emotional health. But in Pierce County, we know many people of all ages are struggling:

• Suicide is our ninth leading cause of death.
• Our suicide rate is about 12% higher than the national average.
• Young adults ages 20–39 experience significantly higher suicide rates than elsewhere in Washington.
• Veterans die by suicide at twice the rate of non-veterans.
• Adults ages 25-34 face the highest suicide rates in the county. People 85 and older have the second-highest rates.

The good news—no, the great news!— is that there is hope. And all of us can help provide it.

One conversation can make all the difference.

The people in our lives can be a lifeline. Strong relationships and trusted connections help protect people when life gets hard.

So, how exactly can you be a lifeline?                 

First, if someone you love seems like they’re struggling, ask how they’re doing. How they’re REALLY doing.

Then, listen. TRULY listen.

As the conversation goes on, make sure they know they:

• Matter to you.
• Are not alone.
• Can get help.
• Can and will feel better.

The right resources at the right time.

Let your loved one know they can connect with you any time. And also let them know resources are available if they need more help.

• If you or someone you know is in crisis, get help now. For life-threatening behaviors, call 911 immediately. Otherwise, call or text 988.
• Text “Heal” to 741-741.
• What you need to know about youth suicide.
• HearMeWA—Anonymous youth-centered crisis program.

You can find more help:

• Preventing youth suicide—Videos, resources, and info from youth.gov. 
• stopbullying.gov—Identify and prevent bullying or get help if you need it. 
• Suicide prevention—Practical tips to prevent suicide and help those in crisis. 
• Reporting on suicide—The way we talk about suicide matters. Learn best practices to ensure your messaging is sensitive and effective. 
• Project Semicolon—Your story isn’t over. Get help if you are struggling with depression. 

Anyone can have a mental health challenge or concern. And anyone can recover from one! We can all work together to provide hope and make sure people are in touch with supportive systems like schools, family, friends, and community. 

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