CAMP SPRINGS, MD – National Suicide Prevention Week is observed during September 8th-14th, 2013, to raise suicide awareness, educate the public about the warning signs and actions to take if a loved one may be at risk, and engage professionals who work to prevent suicide. National prevention efforts are vital in order to reduce the impact of stigma associated with suicide and equip the community with knowledge and resources to recognize who is at risk and how to access help.
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for all ages and the 3rd leading cause of death among 15 to 24-year-olds, according to the National Institute of Mental Illness and the American Association of Suicidology. On average, the Center for Disease Control estimates that each day there are 105 suicides in the United States. Suicide is also four times more prevalent in males than females. Some of the risk factors include mental illness, substance abuse, family history, access to a firearm, suffering a loss, and previous attempts. Although prevalent and complex, many agree that suicide is preventable.
There is assistance available for those in need of intervention and postvention resources. Sponsored by the Prince George’s County Department of Family Services, Mental Health and Disabilities Division, The Prince George’s County Community Crisis Hotline (301-864-7130) and the Crisis Response System (301-429-2185) are 24 hour-a-day, seven-days-a-week resources that have skilled, trained counselors available to respond to people who are in crisis.
Maryland 2-1-1 is another free resource that connects residents to mental health services during difficult times is. This statewide service connects citizens to health and human resources at anytime by providing callers with referrals to agencies and helping people problem-solve when the services they need are not available.
For additional information or resources, you can also visit the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org, or call anonymously to 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
About Prince George’s County Community Crisis Hotline (301) 864-7130:
Since 1970, Community Crisis Services, Inc. has become a one-stop calling center for information and assistance for those in crisis. The Crisis Hotline is often the first step an individual makes to access social service organizations and mental health services within the community. The hotline is a 24 hours a day, 365 days a year service for anyone facing crisis and personal turmoil.
About Prince George’s County Crisis Response System (301) 429-2185:
The Crisis Response System is operated by the Affiliated Santé Group which is a non-profit behavioral health and emergency response service and systems organization. Established in 1974, the Affiliated Santé Group acts as mental health first responders for individuals or groups experiencing a mental health crisis. The non-profit organization offers emergency psychological assessment, immediate intervention for individuals, family and community crisis events.
About Maryland 2-1-1:
The 2-1-1 database has information on more than 7000 agencies and programs across the state of Maryland. 2-1-1 is staffed by professionals who handle thousands of calls from people in need and family members who are struggling with emotional issues. Maryland 2-1-1 also provides referrals to many other County and regional services including rental assistance, food banks, affordable housing resources, child care, after-school programs, elderly care, financial literacy and job training programs. 2-1-1 is funded through local and state sources including, the United Way and other nonprofits, foundations, businesses. The free service operates 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, in over 200 languages.