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In spite of rising rates of suicide, what can you do to help?

By Crisis Connections • September 17, 2018 6:00 am
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and Crisis Connections is joining with community partners to help others learn about resources that can help during times of crisis.
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and Crisis Connections is joining with community partners to help others learn about resources that can help during times of crisis.

According to the Center for Disease Control’s monthly report Vital Signs, suicide rates rose by 25.4% in the US from 1996 to 2016, with nearly 45,000 who died by suicide in 2016. A little more than half of these individuals did not have a diagnosed mental health condition; however, many other factors can contribute to suicidal ideation or actions, such as: relationships, substance use, overall health, and stress surrounding finances and housing. Consequently, more than ever, it’s important for people to feel connected to support, resources, and people.

In 2017, over 260,000 calls were made to Crisis Connections. Their 24-Hour Crisis Line received on average about 326 calls per day. Many of these individuals were in treatment or experiencing a chronic mental health condition. Crisis Connections also received over 135,000 calls to King County 2-1-1 with regards to emergency shelter, rent, move-in, and mortgage costs, housing, utilities, and food. Their programs are focused on connecting people in the community to support, resources, and training that may be of help in times of crisis. Their services aim to help Washington State residents feel a little less alone and empower people who call to keep moving forward.

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and throughout this month, Crisis Connections is partnering with members in the community, such as the Washington State Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, to help others learn about resources that can help during times of crisis.

“These partnerships champion the ways that technology can expand the reach of our support to those who need us but don’t know about us yet,” states Allie Franklin, Executive Director of Crisis Connections. “We hope you will join us on Oct. 3 for our fundraising dinner, Connect: Answering the Call, Tech for All.”

The staff and volunteers with Crisis Connections have their aim set high for this campaign with the goal of integrating technological resources that expand their continuum of care. In spite of rising rates of suicide, they’re increasing their efforts to fill gaps in our community, growing their outreach, and working to help connect people to people.

If you have interest in learning how you can partner or volunteer with Crisis Connections to support their programs or mission, you can connect with them by visiting www.crisisconnections.org.

We can stop suicide by working together.

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