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Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 2022

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. At BFHP we serve the most vulnerable populations in our communities, including people experiencing homelessness, Veterans, and LGBTQAI+ individuals, which are often disproportionately affected by this tragic and complicated public health issue. 

The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

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Resources

Anyone

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988

For TTY Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Chat online: 988lifeline.org/chat

Ayuda En Español: Línea de Prevención del Suicidio y Crisis: 1-888-628-9454

Veterans

Veteran Crisis Line: Call 988 or Text 838255 or Support for deaf and hard of hearing: 1-800-799-4889

Chat online: veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat

LGBTQAI+

LGBT National Hotline: 888-843-4564

The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ youth): (866) 488-7386

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Signs of someone that may be considering suicide are:

• Appearing sad or depressed most of the time
• Feelings hopeless, like there is no way out
• Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or mood swings
• Feeling like there is no purpose to life
• Feelings of anger or rage
• Doing risky activities without thinking
• Increased alcohol or drug use
• Withdrawing from family and friends

If you notice any signs of concerning behavior here are some things you can do to help

• Start a conversation: Mention the signs that made you to talk to them. Stay calm and let the person know you want to help them. Don’t leave the person alone.
• Listen, express concern and reassure the individual: Let the person know you care and that you take the situation seriously. Letting the person know you care will go a long way in establishing a support system.
• Create a safety plan: Ask the person if they have access to anything that could harm them and call for help if you feel the situation is dangerous.
• Get the individual help: Provide resources for the individual. Or if you feel the situation is severe, take the individual to the closest emergency room or seek help from a professional immediately.