World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10th
Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death for all Americans. In 2007, more than 34,000 people committed suicide in the United States--one death for every 15 minutes. In addition, an estimated 395,000 people were treated in Emergency Departments for intentional, nonfatal self-inflicted injuries.
Most people are uncomfortable with the topic of suicide. Too often, victims are blamed and their families and friends are stigmatized. As a result, people do not communicate openly about suicide and an important public health problem is left shrouded in secrecy, limiting information needed for prevention research.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) works to prevent suicidal behavior before it occurs. For more information on preventing suicide in your community, visit
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide contact
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at
1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).