#BeThere to Help Prevent Suicide

Suicide is a serious public health problem that can have lasting harmful effects on individuals, families, and communities. Suicide is more than a mental health concern.

A CDC study showed that a range of factors contribute to suicide among those with and without known mental health conditions. Everyone can help prevent suicide by knowing the warning signs and where to get help.

The Facts About Suicide

Suicide is a public health problem because of its far-reaching effects:

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. It was responsible for more than 48,000 deaths in 2018.
In 2018, 10.7 million American adults seriously thought about suicide, 3.3 million made a plan, and 1.4 million attempted suicide.
People who have experienced violence, including child abuse, bullying, or sexual violence are at higher risk for suicide.

Suicide prevention is everyone’s business. You can #BeThereexternal and #BeThe1Toexternal help a friend, loved one, or coworker. Everyone can learn the warning signs and how to get help.

What to Watch For

Individual, relationship, community, and societal factors may influence the risk of suicide. Know the suicide warning signs including:

Feeling like a burden
Being isolated
Increased anxiety
Feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
Increased substance use
Looking for a way to access lethal means
Increased anger or rage
Extreme mood swings
Expressing hopelessness
Sleeping too little or too much
Talking or posting about wanting to die
Making plans for suicide

How to Get Help

Safeguard the people in your life from the risk of suicide and support them:

Ask.
Keep them safe.
Be there.
Help them connect. You can start with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255).
Follow up.
Find out how these actions can save a life by visiting www.BeThe1To.com.

Everyone can play a part in preventing suicide!