September is Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide doesn't have one cause. We can all learn more about what causes suicide and how to prevent it. To this end, The National Council for Suicide Prevention (NCSP) has launched the Take 5 to Save Lives campaign. Take 5 encourages everyone to complete several action steps under 5 important themes: LEARN, KNOW, DO, TALK, and SHARE. The campaign broadens recognition of these important suicide prevention activities and includes public awareness events.
LEARN Learning the warning signs, risk factors, and protective factors of suicide will better prepare you to take action and could help save a life.
KNOW By knowing exactly what to say and do, you'll be ready to act and keep yourself, your friends, and your family safe.
DO Preventing suicide requires action. Everyone can DO something to get involved in the suicide prevention movement.
TALK Talking about suicide safely and responsibly can reduce negative stigma and lead to increased help-seeking.
SHARE Help spread the word about one of the most important public health issues of our time.
Suicidal thoughts can plague anyone regardless of age, gender, or social status. Commonly linked to depression, there is no foolproof indicator of suicidal tendencies. Many people suffering from depression or suicidal thoughts cover them up quite well.
If you’d like to learn more or get involved with the International Association for Suicide Prevention, visit IASP.info. Join together with thousands of other people from across the globe to raise awareness and prevent suicide.
The National Council for Suicide Prevention is a coalition of seven national organizations working to prevent suicide. The mission of the NCSP is to advance suicide prevention through leadership, advocacy and a collective voice. During the last year, these organizations have directly impacted the lives of over 2 million people and generated over 100 million media impressions.
If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, dial 988 for The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, or 911 if in immediate danger.