AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)- September is National Suicide Prevention Month.
It’s a crucial time when communities, organizations, and individuals come together to increase awareness about suicide.
According to the CDC, more than 49 thousand people died by suicide in the United States in 2023, making it one of the leading causes of death across all age groups.
That’s one every eleven minutes.
Now, some of the highest rates of suicide happen to men over 85 years old.
But it isn’t just the elderly who are at risk.
It can happen to anyone at any age.
And there are signs you should watch for.
“If you notice that somebody you knows behavior has changed in a way that’s concerning you. What I tell everybody is listen to your gut. If they’re drinking more or if they’re not participating in things that they used to do, if they’ve withdrawn from social activities, if their school work has changed, at least ask.,” says psychiatric medical director for Piedmont, Brian Wright.
He also says its okay to have this conversations, its a way to save a life.
“So it is always okay to ask people about it. If somebody confides in you that they’re struggling. Sometimes you you have to just keep them safe. And that’s different for everybody.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, just call or text the 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Photojournalist: Dania Alawir
