Parkridge Marks Suicide Prevention Month
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – September is recognized nationwide as Suicide Prevention Month, an effort to raise awareness about a leading public health concern.
Parkridge Health System is joining the push to share facts, resources, and access to support.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was among the leading causes of death in 2023. Nearly 50,000 people ages 12 and older died by suicide that year.
Suicide does not discriminate, it affects individuals across all age groups, races, and communities.
The CDC also reports that for every suicide death, there were approximately 10 emergency department visits for self-harm and 48 self-reported suicide attempts.
These numbers demonstrate how widespread the impact is, reaching far beyond those who die and affecting families, schools, workplaces, and entire communities.
Prevention and early intervention are key.
Resources are available year-round.
The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, reached by calling or texting 988, connects people to trained counselors 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Lifeline provides immediate support and can guide individuals to further care and community resources.
By raising awareness during Suicide Prevention Month, Parkridge Health System and other organizations hope to reduce stigma, increase understanding, and encourage those in need to take the first step toward help.
