Suicide Prevention Month: Help is Available

9/9/2021

Health ＆ Social Services

Hand holding a yellow ribbon with text that reads "Suicide Prevention"

Article Date: Thursday, September 9, 2021

September is National Suicide Prevention Month— a time to share resources and stories to shed light on this stigmatized topic. Sacramento County Division of Behavioral Health Services wants to reach out to those affected by suicide, including those who have lost loved ones to suicide. Stigma is the largest obstacle to seeking treatment.

Suicidal thoughts, like other mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. By recognizing the signs, knowing how to start a conversation and where to get help, you have the power to save a life.

If you are concerned about someone, ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. Being direct provides an opportunity for them to talk about their distress. It will not suggest the idea if they aren’t already thinking about it. The “Find the Words” section of the Know the Signs website suggests ways to start the conversation.

Help is Available

Suicide Prevention Crisis Line 1-800-273-TALK (8255) is operated by WellSpace Health, the region’s Suicide Prevention Crisis Line. Calls are answered 24/7 by trained counselors.
Crisis Chat by Text. Text the word HOPE to 916-668-iCAN (4226). Crisis Chat and Texting are support services not meant for life-threatening situations. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the 24-hour Suicide Prevention Crisis Lines or 911.
Sacramento County Division of Behavioral Services provides services including early intervention, outpatient services, case management services, crisis and intervention and stabilization services.
The National Alliance for Mental Illness/California (NAMI) has partnered with the Crisis Text Line, available 24/7. Text the word NAMI to 741741 and a crisis worker will respond.
The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ Young People): 1-866-488-7386
Friendship Line (for Older Adults): 1-800-971-0016
Trans Lifeline 1-877-565-8860
Teen Line Call 1-800-852-8336 (from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. PST)

“Today, it’s more important than ever before that we reach out and support each other,” said Ryan Quist, Director of the Sacramento County Division of Behavioral Health Services. “Most people thinking about suicide do not want to end their lives. If they can get through the crisis, treatment works.”