HHS offers resources for Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

BISMARCK, ND - In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month this September, North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is encouraging awareness of resources and key actions to take to save lives. North Dakota, Gov. Doug Burgum’s proclamation of September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in North Dakota states, “suicide prevention is important year-round, promoting compassion, learning, and sharing resources during this month can help raise awareness about suicide prevention, reduce stigma and promote positive mental health as essential components to saving lives. Effective suicide prevention requires collaboration among multiple state and non-state agencies, organizations as well as individual volunteers and suicide survivors.

Suicide Statistics and the Importance of Awareness

During the month of September, approximately 1.3 million people in the U.S. will have suicidal thoughts, 142,000 will attempt suicide, and 4,000 will die by suicide, according to the Suicide Prevention Resource Center. In 2023, 142 North Dakota residents died by suicide, according to ND Vital Records.

"Compassion and human connection are powerful tools in suicide prevention. Reaching out, listening without judgment, and showing genuine care can provide the hope and support that someone in crisis needs,” said HHS Suicide Prevention Administrator Melissa Markegard. “There are numerous resources available for those in crisis or those supporting someone in crisis. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, for instance, offers 24/7 free and confidential support. We encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with these resources and share them widely."

HHS reminds North Dakotans about available resources to support those struggling with behavioral health concerns and encourages authentic, caring conversations about suicide and mental health.

How to Help: Key Actions for Suicide Prevention

Suicide prevention can and should happen everywhere that people live, work, and play. HHS encourages you to:

Educate Yourself and Reach Out: Learn the warning signs of suicide and how to help someone in crisis. Offering a listening ear can make a significant difference. Resources are available at www.hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/prevention/suicide.
Share Resources: Familiarize yourself with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and share this information. If you or someone you love is struggling, call or text 988 for free and confidential emotional support available 24/7. Download a Safety Plan from the HHS website to help guide conversations and preparations for potential crises.
Promote Compassion: Foster empathy and judgment-free spaces in your home, workplace, and community to allow those struggling to seek help without fear of stigma.
Help is a Phone Call Away. North Dakotans are encouraged to call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if they are experiencing thoughts of suicide, a mental health or substance use crisis, emotional distress, or if they have concerns for a loved one. In North Dakota, the 988 Lifeline is answered 24/7 by FirstLink, who can connect callers to HHS regional human service center mobile crisis teams for further assistance.

Dimensions of Wellness Webinar

As part of September’s observance of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, HHS will host a webinar on the Dimensions of Wellness on Thursday, Sept. 26, at 12 p.m. CT. This webinar, hosted by Markegard, is free and available to the public. Register here: hhsnd.site/dimensionsofwellnesswebinar2024

Additional Resources

HHS Suicide Prevention website: www.hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/prevention/suicide for information on warning signs, what to say, and available resources.
ParentsLead website: www.parentslead.org for parents seeking information on suicide and behavioral health resources.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: For tips on supporting survivors of loss, visit afsp.org/ive-lost-someone
FirstLink: Call or text 9-8-8 or chat 988lifeline.org/chat if you, or someone you know, is experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis or thoughts of suicide.

National Suicide Prevention Observances

While the entire month is dedicated to suicide prevention, National Suicide Prevention Week is Sept. 8-14 and World Suicide Prevention Day is recognized on Sept. 10. This year also marks the first 988 Day on Sept. 8, sponsored by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Suicide Prevention Month Proclamation

Gov. Doug Burgum signed a proclamation recognizing September 2024 as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, view proclamation here.

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