September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. Organizations are working across the globe, including here locally, to support those who may be struggling.
Folks in Nevada can find education, resources, and emotional support through local organizations, at school, and even through family and friends.
One organization looking to help is NAMI Nevada -- or the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Their work goes hand in hand with suicide prevention.
“Depression and anxiety is probably the largest group of people who end up ultimately considering suicide,” said Interim Executive Director, Robin Reedy. “But, you know, it's not really any one group. That's the unique thing.”
Reedy says mental illness and suicidal ideation crosses all barriers; religion, race, age, socioeconomic class, etc. However, she says there is research that shows members of the LGBTIQ+ community, the elderly, and those under the age of 18-years-old may be disproportionately affected.
No matter what group someone belongs to, talking about mental health and spotting the signs may help save their life.
“If you think someone is considering suicide, the best thing you can do is ask them, just ask them,” said Reedy. “It's not going to make them do it. It's not going to give them the idea. Just ask them, are you considering suicide? Are you considering ending your life? And then continue on with that discussion depending on the answers.”
Reedy says the conversation shouldn't just end with those initial questions -- but with a plan to get help.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call 988. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline will connect you to someone in Nevada specifically trained to handle crises and get you in contact with the appropriate resources based on the situation.
More resources can be found on the NAMI Nevada website, here: Resources - NAMI Northern Nevada
