SUICIDE AWARENESS MONTH

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness on this stigmatized, and often taboo, topic. In addition to shifting public perception, the Nagel Clinic uses this month to spread hope and vital information to people affected by suicide. Our goal isensuring that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.

Throughout the month of September, we encourage people to bring their voices together to advocate for better mental health care, including a crisis response system. The Nagel Clinic wants any person experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors to have a number to call, a system to turn to, that would connect them to the treatment and support they need.

• Half of all people struggling with suicidal ideation and depression do not get treatment.

• Treatment with counseling and medication is shown to be 80%-90% effective

• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among teens age 15-19 and the 10 th leading cause of death for all ages

• Suicide is 79% higher among males

• The risk of suicide for veterans is 22% higher than for civilians, and rural veterans have a 20% higher risk for suicide than those living in suburban or urban areas

• If you know someone struggling with suicidal ideation call the Suicide Prevention Hotline (800) 273-8255 which operates 24 hours every day.

• If you are struggling with depression or need more information on mental health speak with your provider.

If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Donna Carrasco at the Clinic at (830) 796-3448.

- Susan Broa

Clinical Director, Arthur Nagel Community Clinic

Bandera, Texas