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On September 10, World Suicide Prevention Day, mental health experts are calling for a shift in how we talk about suicide. They emphasize the power of open conversations and compassionate language to prevent tragedy and support those at risk.
The annual event, observed globally, aims to raise awareness about suicide prevention, encourage dialogue on mental health, and highlight resources to reduce stigma. This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” underscores the urgent need for comprehensive prevention efforts.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide remains a leading cause of death in the United States, with nearly 50,000 lives lost to suicide in 2022 alone. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data reveals that one person dies by suicide every 11 minutes in the country.
Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, a Culver City-based nonprofit and leader in mental health, crisis care, and substance use services for over 80 years, is offering practical guidance for discussing suicide.
The organization, home to the nation’s first comprehensive Suicide Prevention Center, proposes a five-step approach. These steps include: Step Up: Ask about suicide directly in a private space; Step In: Listen attentively without judgment; Step to Safety: Develop a safety plan; Step Forward: Encourage professional help; and Step By Step: Follow up regularly.
Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services’ crisis lines supported nearly 194,000 individuals in 2023, while its suicide prevention trainings and outreach events reached an additional 58,000 people. These figures underscore the growing need for mental health resources and suicide prevention efforts.
The nonprofit operates the largest crisis center for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in California. It also runs Teen Line, a youth peer-to-peer hotline, providing crucial support for adolescents navigating mental health challenges from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. PST by phone and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. PST by text.
Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services partners with the Los Angeles Police Department to divert mental health crisis calls from 911. The organization also provides outpatient therapy, crisis counseling, and support groups for survivors of suicide loss and attempts.
Resources available for those seeking support include Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services’ Suicide Prevention Center website (www.crisiscare.org), the 24/7 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and Teen Line.
More information about Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services’ services can be found at www.didihirsch.org.
World Suicide Prevention Day, occurring during National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, serves as a reminder of the power of compassionate communication and community support. It highlights the importance of fostering environments where individuals feel comfortable seeking help and discussing mental health concerns.
Help is available all the time:
National Suicide Hotline (988 Lifeline): Dial 988 for 24/7 support
Didi Hirsch 24-hour Crisis Line: 1-877-727-4747 (en Español: 1-800-628-9454)
LGBTQ – The Trevor Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386
Trans Crisis Line (Trans Lifeline): 1-877-565-8860
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