"Looking Out for Each Other" is Focus of National Suicide Prevention Month this September

September is National Suicide Prevention Month and this year the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is underscoring looking out for each other by encouraging the public to join one of the hundreds of community Out of the Darkness Walks thoughout the country or getting involved in other events throughout the month. The Illinois chapter of AFSP hosts the largest event in the country with the Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk, which steps off from Montrose Harbor on Saturday, September 27. Additional opportunities to learn and show support are taking place throughout the month.

Leading cause of death

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for all ages. In 2023, 49,316 Americans died by suicide and there were an estimated 1.5 million suicide attempts. Men died by suicide 3.8 times more than women, with white males accounting for 68.13% of suicide deaths. Firearms accounted for 55.36% of all suicide deaths.

In the United States in 2023, suicide was the 2nd leading cause of death for ages 10-34, the 4th leading cause of death for ages 35-44, and the 5th leading cause of death for ages 45-54. In Illinois, suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for ages 15-34 and 4th leading cause for ages 35-54.

"Suicide continues to be a national health concern linked to a number of factors like mental and physical health conditions, family mental illness or family history of suicide, childhood trauma, abuse or neglect, and genetics," said Angela Cummings, executive director of AFSP-Illinois. "Ongoing research shows suicide is preventable, and AFSP is committed to end this leading cause of death."

Individuals can help prevent suicide by knowing the warning signs and getting help when warranted.

• Learn the signs of someone who may be at risk for suicide. Often there are changes in behavior such as mood swings, angry outbursts, or loss of interest in activities they love.
• Reach out to someone who you think may be struggling. Trust your gut if you are concerned. Ask directly if they have thoughts of ending their life – research shows this is helpful and does not put the thought in their mind.
• Connect those who are struggling to help. Share the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline as well as general and other resources for minority communities.

AFSP and its Illinois chapter are dedicated to improved research, education, and advocacy. Through its statewide network of volunteers, AFSP Illinois offers prevention education programs that emphasize the importance of research-proven self-care techniques as well as the value of engaging professional support.

About the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention:

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to individuals affected by suicide. The organization creates a culture that is smart regarding mental health through educational programs, advocation for suicide prevention, and providing support for those affected by suicide. All donations go towards these efforts with the goal to greatly reduce the national suicide rate.

For more: www.afsp.org/Illinois

If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide, please call or text the U.S. National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Statistics on Suicide: https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics

Suicide Prevention Resources: www.afsp.org/resources

Suicide Warning Signs: www.afsp.org/signs

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