The Institute observes Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

The Institute for Family Health joins with many organizations and service providers in bringing care and treatment to patients suffering with suicidal thoughts. In the context of the COVID-19 public health emergency and the economic, racial and health disparities strikingly revealed by the pandemic, people are more vulnerable than ever. Precipitating factors such as illness and job loss can escalate a crisis. We encourage anyone considering suicide to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (en español 1-888-628-9454). You can also visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Year round, the Institute’s behavioral health department provides training and support to its mental health team on the topic of suicide screening, assessment, treatment and crisis management. For this special month of September, we’re offering our staff additional support and training in the form of a webinar series. The webinars enhance our staff members’ skills in areas such as working with patients in crisis, overdose prevention, safety planning, and other best practices. We’re proud to work throughout the year to support people experiencing thoughts of suicide with compassionate services.

Feeling stressed by the COVID-19 epidemic? You are not alone. Call the NYS Emotional Support Helpline 7 days a week, 8am-10pm at 1-844-863-9314.