Each year, Maine joins the United States and the international
community in recognizing World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10. Suicide
continues to be a public health concern, with 689 deaths by suicide between
2011 and 2013 in Maine. In addition, between 2011 and 2013, suicide was the
first leading cause of death for Maine adolescents between the ages of 10 and
14, second among Maine residents between 15 and 34 years of age, and fourth
among Maine residents between the ages of 35 and 54. Suicide is
preventable and knowledge, understanding and support can save lives
If you suspect someone you know may be at risk of suicide,
follow these steps:
- Show you care by listening
carefully and without judgment.
- Ask them if they are thinking
about suicide. Be direct and empathetic. (Asking about suicide does not
increase the risk of suicide.)
- Stay with them (or have another
caring person stay with them) while you locate help.
- Call the Maine Crisis Hotline
(1-888-568-1112) or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
(1-800-273-8255).
- If the person is at immediate
risk of harming themselves, call 911.
For more information on how you can help prevent suicide in your
community or workplace, contact Amy Ouellette at the Maine Chapter of the
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Maine), 622-5767, extension 2318.
NAMI Maine hosts many training opportunities throughout the year.
Remember: Suicide is
preventable. Knowledge, understanding, and support can save lives.
