National Suicide Prevention Week is September 8 to 14

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September 8-14 is National Suicide Prevention Week, a week dedicated to informing the general public about suicide prevention and warning signs of suicide. 

Pain isn’t always obvious. Even surrounded by family and friends someone can feel isolated and alone; even when  successful in school and at work, someone can feel hopeless and without purpose; even with a smile on their face, someone can feel deep sadness and depression on the inside. 

During September, we want to emphasize that everyone can play a role in suicide prevention.This is an opportunity to learn the warning signs for suicide, find the words to express concerns to those we care about, connect with our friends, family and co-workers, and learn about local resources that are available to offer support. “Research shows that people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks them in a caring way.” – National Suicide Prevention Line. 

Keep an eye out later this week for posts about how you can prevent suicide by communicating to someone #ImHereForYou. Topics include: 

  • It’s okay to talk about suicide
  • Listen non-judgmentally
  • Validate that a person’s feelings matter
  • Care for yourself and build resilience

To learn more about Behavioral Health and Recovery Services’ Office of Diversity and Equity September Suicide Prevention Month, resources and for a full list of events, visit www.smchealth.org/SuicidePrevention. 

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please reach out to these 24/7 crisis hotlines: StarVista Crisis Hotline (San Mateo County) – 650-579-0350, National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and/or Crisis Text Line – Text “Home” to 741741.

If you or someone you know is in need of mental health or substance use services and you have MediCal, Health Plan San Mateo (HPSM), or are uninsured, please contact BHRS ACCESS at (806) 686- 0101 or TDD at (800) 943- 2833. If you have private insurance please reach out to your insurance company and request support. 

#BetheOneSMC #ImHereForYou

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