Several local organizations work together to help save lives this Suicide Prevention Month
Danyelle Burke North
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and several local organizations are helping save lives and protect mental health.
Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, more than 700,000 people die by suicide every year globally.
“About every 11 minutes, one person dies from suicide in the United States, and it is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 34. It’s very real. It’s out there,” said Onvida Health’s Dr. Gwendolyn Roberson.
That’s why several local organizations are working together to help save lives. Onvida Health, Sunset Health and local businesses are raising awareness for the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline.
“We are pairing with local businesses to promote awareness by having 988 stickers that have been placed on coffee, various shops, and also might see flyers or signs up about it through the month,” said Dr. Roberson.
The 988 phone number on the stickers connects people with a 24/7 crisis intervention specialist in times of a mental health emergency.
“It’s the suicide crisis hotline. It’s just like calling 911, but it’s specifically for mental health for anyone in crisis,” said Roberson.
The Yuma County Anti-Drug Coalition (YCADC) is another organization focusing on suicide awareness this month through their Q3 campaign.
“We bring agencies together throughout the county and the state,” said YCADC Executive Director Joanne Fiser. “We have plenty of agencies traveling from Tucson and Phoenix to be part of this coalition.”
During their community meeting, local agencies discussed prevention steps like recognizing warning signs, crisis planning, community resources, and how to support families.
The YCADC also provides weekly videos and information posts through their podcast, social media, and website.