By Elle Ryan, MS, Mental Health Clinician
Currently, suicide ranks as the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. In 2022, the an estimated 49,449 lives were lost to suicide, averaging a life lost every seven days. November 18th is remembered as the International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, giving survivors of suicide loss a day to connect and find hope through their shared experiences during the holidays.
Grief is never easy. Suicide occurs in every age group and demographic, leaving a tragic loss for family and friends, struggling to cope and understand. Knowing how to help or what to say towards someone coping with the loss of a loved one can be daunting. Expressing your care and concern, helping with practical tasks and listening, without offering advice or passing judgment, is often the best way to provide support.
This year, Counseling Connect, PLLC presents our first annual benefit for suicide prevention, What We Live For. A percentage of this event’s proceeds will be donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. In addition, our practice will soon launch We Are Hope, a therapeutic group for clients dealing with depression and self-harm.
You can contribute to suicide prevention and support survivors of suicide loss by donating to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://www.facebook.com/donate/619681596931620/664249319131291
Join us at our celebration of life at our fundraiser What We Live For on November 18, 2023 at 6-9 PM at Nesselrod on the New. Tickets are still available! https://counseling.planningpod.com/
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 988.