September is suicide prevention awareness month and the Illinois Department of Public Health informs this is especially important during the pandemic. More than one thousand people in Illinois take their own lives each year and suicide is the third leading cause of death for ages 15 to 34. While there are no statistics about suicide rates related to COVID-19, it is a concern, says State Public Health Director Doctor Ngozi Ezike:
“We know many Illinoisans, I dare say every Illinoisans, has experienced impact on their mental and emotional well-being. Issues such as job loss, financial strain, and social isolation are all risk factors for suicide. If you or someone you know is in an emergency situation please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK,” states Ezike.
Warning signs for suicide include often talking or writing about death, feeling hopeless, increased substance abuse and withdrawing from friends and family. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK.
***Report Courtesy of the Illinois Department of Central Management Services***
