World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10. It’s a time to remember those affected by suicide, to raise awareness, and to focus efforts on directing treatment to those who need it most.

I am passionate about mental health because I have suffered from poor mental health for so long. I’ve contemplated suicide many times during my life - and tried to commit suicide once. I am not alone.

According to the US Department of Health + Human Services Office of Minority Health:

In 2019, suicide was the second leading cause of death for blacks or African Americans, ages 15 to 24.

The death rate from suicide for black or African American men was four times greater than for African American women, in 2018.
The overall suicide rate for black or African Americans was 60 percent lower than that of the non-Hispanic white population, in 2018.
Black females, grades 9-12, were 60 percent more likely to attempt suicide in 2019, as compared to non-Hispanic white females of the same age.
Poverty level affects mental health status. Black or African Americans living below the poverty level, as compared to those over twice the poverty level, are twice as likely to report serious psychological distress.
A report from the U.S. Surgeon General found that from 1980 - 1995, the suicide rate among African Americans ages 10 to 14 increased 233 percentage, as compared to 120 percent of non-Hispanic whites.

It’s important that we talk about suicide + mental health. Research shows that people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks about them in a caring way. Talking about suicide and mental health in a safe space can reduce suicidal thoughts. It’s important for those suffering from suicidal thoughts to have someone to speak with who doesn’t judge + who provides resources to support them.

So, #BeThe1To … provide the support needed to prevent another suicide.

Resources for Black Women + Girls seeking mental health support

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