HARTSVILLE, TN – September is Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month, a time dedicated to promoting actions that can help save lives. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), an average of 135 suicide deaths occur each day.

Highpoint Health - Trousdale with Ascension Saint Thomas’s Senior Life Solutions Program is joining mental health professionals nationwide to raise awareness and encourage education to prevent future tragedies. Understanding the signs and knowing how to get help are vital steps in making a difference.

"Suicide is a public health crisis that affects people from all walks of life," says Lori Nixon, RN, Highpoint Health Senior Life Solutions – Trousdale Program Director. "By coming together to raise awareness and educate our communities, we can create a culture where it’s okay to talk about mental health and seek help when needed. We all have a role to play in preventing suicide, and it starts with understanding and compassion."

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline's #BeThe1To campaign outlines five actionable steps anyone can take to help prevent suicide:

• Be the One to ASK. Directly asking someone if they are thinking about suicide can open a critical dialogue.
• Be the One to BE THERE. Showing you care and offering support without judgment can help reduce feelings of isolation.
• Be the One to KEEP THEM SAFE. If someone is at immediate risk, take steps to remove access to means of self-harm.
• Be the One to HELP THEM STAY CONNECTED. Connect them with friends, family, professional services, or resources like the 988 Lifeline or Crisis Text Line at 741741.
• Be the One to FOLLOW-UP. Regular check-ins reinforce that you care and are committed to their well-being.

By following these five steps, anyone can play a role in supporting those who may be struggling. The #BeThe1To campaign empowers individuals to make a difference in their communities, emphasizing that small actions can have a significant impact.

If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately. For those experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, help is available 24/7 by calling or texting the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Highpoint Health Senior Life Solutions - Trousdale is an outpatient program designed for older adults experiencing depression and/or anxiety. If you or someone you know is struggling with a decline in mental health, Senior Life Solutions is here to help. For more information, call 615.374.9991.