TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — September 10 is Suicide Prevention Day, and now more than ever local health experts say it's important to pay attention to your friends and family.
In Florida, suicide is among the top 10 causes of death each year.
Florida's Behavioral Health Association says it's particularly important to focus on this subject this year because there are already indications that the pandemic is affecting people's mental health.
"Well, it's important for all of us to recognize the symptoms and it's important for all of us to reach out to friends and neighbors and families that maybe we haven't had contact with in a while," said Melanie Brown-Woofter, CEO and president of FBHA. "Just so that they can hear a human voice whenever you are considering suicide and our that depresses really hard to reach out for help. So, it can make all the difference for someone to reach out to you and just say a very simple, 'How are you doing today?'"
Warning signs someone may be in distress include extreme mood swings, folks who consider themselves a burden, or if they start losing interest in activities.
You can find crisis hotlines, texting services, and more resources, on their website by clicking here.
