While suicide prevention is a topic that comes and goes in popular media, we've seen efforts to While suicide prevention is a topic that comes and goes in popular media, we've seen efforts to bridge the gap that separates intent from action. With the help of mobile technology and network connectivity, people are more connected now than they ever have been before. Yet, many people who feel a desire or intention to end their own lives often don't see alternatives for coping with their problems. Suicide can be prevented with a combination of science-based strategies.

Social support is incredibly important for suicide prevention. Having a good network of trustworthy supportive family and friends is important. Sometimes the people around us can hear us out and help us through our problems. If you don't have a big social circle, make an effort to go out, meet new people and attend community events.

Prepare yourself to effectively deal with stress and adversity. By building life skills such as critical thinking, stress management, and coping, individuals can prepare to safely address challenges such as economic stress, divorce, physical illness, and aging. Click here to learn about coping skills.

Suicide prevention includes campaigns to reduce the stigma of mental illness and increase public awareness of suicide. It also includes media campaigns to increase help-seeking as well as efforts to prevent future suicides, such as restricting access to lethal means (e.g., firearms) and antidepressant medications.

Let's face it, we're all in this together and there is no shame in asking for help. There's an epidemic of suicide and mental illness, but together we can prevent suicide by creating better community engagement and having a safe social circle that value and honors one another. If you are interested in collaborating with us, please visit our contact us page