Suicide Prevention
Suicide is a major public health issue that has affected us personally and is a leading cause of death in the United States. However, suicide is not an isolated issue affecting only this country but is a global crisis claiming nearly 800,000 lives every year. Yes, suicide is a complex issue and can be a deeply personal issue for the families and communities left behind but this issue can no longer be ignored.
Our Belief
It is our belief that suicide is preventable and more can be done to help communities raise awareness of the challenges and obstacles they face when addressing this issue. We understand that suicide is often a mental health issue or a personal decision but still there are social issues such as bullying and discrimination that have resulted in suicide. In these cases, suicide was absolutely preventable. Too often LGBTQ and minority youth are bullied resulting in unnecessary trauma, anxiety, stress, and quite frankly pain that no child should experience. As a society, we can do better to protect our most vulnerable groups of people.
What Can You Do?
If you are someone who is struggling with this issue, please reach out for support. Talk to a family member or a trusted friend that will ensure you get the help you need. The warning signs are often missed or because of the stigma surrounding this issue many people do not ask for help. Again, reach out for support. If you are a family member, a teacher, or a friend be available, listen, support. It is ok to talk about suicide.
Learn More
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 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. The toll free number is currently 1-800-273-8255.
World Health Organization - Read the organization's overview, fact sheets, data, tools, and response to suicide prevention.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - LGBTQ+ Lifeline and resources
It Gets Better Project - The It Gets Better Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth around the globe.
Trans Lifeline - The Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline and non-profit organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis - for the trans community, by the trans community. Lifeline number is 877-565-8860.
The Trevor Project - Resource page for preventing suicide from this leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.
National Institute of Mental Health - Suicide Prevention information and resources.
The Recovery Village - Resource guide providing Mental Health First Aid For Suicidal Thoughts And Behaviors