Mental health leaders hope to break stigma during Suicide Prevention Month

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Shedding light on the topic of suicide.

"Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for people in the United States and in the world," says NAMI Fresno Executive Director, Dr. Amy Parks. "It's the second leading cause of death for young people ages 10 to 34."

Having talks around suicide is never easy, nor is it comfortable, but it's important to have those difficult conversations because it lets people know they are not alone in their mental health struggles.

If you are experiencing suicidal, substance use or other mental health crises please call or text the new three-digit code at 988. You will reach a trained crisis counselor for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also go to 988lifeline.org.

"I think sometimes people worry that if they ask about suicide, it's going to give somebody the idea or maybe empower them," Dr. Parks said. "Actually, it does the opposite and it helps them feel connected and supported, and it and it helps to kind of normalize those feelings."

It can be as simple as asking, "If you're okay?"

Suicide doesn't just affect the younger population.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness says that at least 1 in 20 adults has serious thoughts of suicide each year.

Dr. Parks explains that older adults over 85 are also at risk.

"Loneliness, isolation, disconnection from family and friends," she said. "New health diagnosis can also be a factor and not wanting to go through a long, long illness."

While it can be hard to find help or know if you need it, there are resources available, like the 988 line and support groups, such as those at NAMI Fresno.

Dr. Parks says it's important to take that first step.

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