This is Suicide Prevention Month

Posted: Mon, Sep 7, 2020 4:37 PM

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 44,000 Americans die by suicide every year. Losing a loved one to suicide can be intense and overwhelming. Often the feelings of shame and stigma prevent family members from talking about their loss and compounding the pain.

During the current COVID-19 pandemic there has been an increase in social isolation, feelings of hopelessness and substance usage. These risk factors can be warning signs that someone may need support to cope.

If you know someone who you think may be showing signs of thinking about suicide, you should reach out for help and support by visiting https://yourlifeiowa.org/suicide or by calling Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health at (563) 382-3649.

The 6th Annual Step Up Reach Out Suicide Awareness Walk will be held Saturday in Decorah. The walk will allow participants an opportunity to remember those who have been lost to suicide and offer encouragement to those who are struggling. Proceeds go towards suicide prevention education throughout northeast Iowa.

Participants will meet at Northeast Iowa Behavioral Health at 905 Montgomery Street in Decorah. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m., a short program begins at 10:00 a.m., followed by a walk along the bike trail. There is no cost to participate, though free will donations are accepted. Social distancing and masks are encouraged.