September was Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. We have a special guest writer on the blog today, Shanta Atkinson. Atkinson is a Buckner Family Pathways™ counselor in Houston, Texas. 

Suicide is often a stigmatized and taboo topic to discuss. The truth is, we can all benefit from honest conversations about mental health conditions and suicide, because just one conversation can change a life. Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. 

Join the conversation and be mindful of the facts about suicide.

• 79% of all people who die by suicide are male.
• Although more women than men attempt suicide, men are four times more likely to die by suicide.
• Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10 to 14 and the third leading cause of death among people ages 15 to 24 in the U.S. (National Institutes of Health)
• Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death overall in the U.S. (National Institutes of Health)
• 46% of people who die by suicide had been diagnosed with a mental health condition - but research shows that up to 90% may have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition without the diagnosis.

There is a new resource available nationwide. Dialing #988 will put callers in contact with support for mental health, substance abuse and suicide crises. This new number will allow people to quickly connect with support during a crisis, 24/7, no matter where they live.

If you or someone you know is struggling emotionally, financially or physically, there are resources available through the Buckner Family Hope Center™ programs to help provide education, support and long-term sufficiency. There are also resources available for single parents through the Buckner Family Pathways™ program.