National Suicide Awareness Month month is observed in September. Also known as Suicide Prevention Month, the month focuses the discussion on depression, mental health, and the need to speak up if you have suicidal thoughts.

National Suicide Awareness Month reminds us that everyone is affected by suicide, not just the victim. Suicide impacts family and friends long after the loss of a loved one. On average, one person commits suicide every 16.2 minutes. Two-thirds of the people who commit suicide suffer from depression.

If you or someone you know needs emergency assistance, contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.