September marks Suicide Prevention Month, a period aimed at raising awareness about suicide and promoting available mental health resources. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-34 and ranks as the 12th leading cause of death in the United States. The organization also notes that nearly half of those who die by suicide had been diagnosed with a mental illness.
State Representative Todd Hunter, who represents Aransas County and part of Nueces County, emphasized the importance of addressing this issue. “The purpose of Suicide Prevention Month is to promote suicide prevention awareness and to spread knowledge about resources available for those who struggle with mental illness. Suicide Prevention Month is important because this month is dedicated for people to come together and discuss suicide, which can be a difficult topic to speak about.”
Hunter highlighted that open conversations can help reduce stigma around suicide. “Although historically there has been a stigma surrounding the topic of suicide, people need to discuss it. Taking part in open conversations about suicide lessens the stigma around suicide, which leads to people who are struggling to reach out and ask for help. According to Suicide Prevention Lifeline, people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts feel relief when people ask them about their mental health. Furthermore, discussing mental health can reduce suicidal thoughts.”
Suicide rates have increased by 35 percent since 1999, according to data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness. With these rising numbers, Hunter pointed out that recognizing signs such as changes in behavior or mood swings is crucial for prevention efforts.
“Due to increasing suicide rates, it is important to be aware of the signs of struggling mental health since suicide is preventable. Some of the warning signs for suicide include new behaviors such as increased use of drugs or alcohol, extreme mood swings, talking about being a burden to others, and withdrawing or isolating oneself. While these signs cannot predict whether a person will attempt suicide, knowing the signs and reaching out to a person who is struggling can make a positive impact on their life,” he said.
For more information on resources related to Suicide Prevention Month or mental health support services in Texas, individuals are encouraged to visit organizations such as the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (https://sprc.org), Suicide Prevention Lifeline (https://988lifeline.org), or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (https://nami.org).
Hunter’s offices remain available for assistance regarding state agencies or constituent services at his Capitol Office (512-463-0672) or District Office (361-949-4603). He can also be reached via email at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov.
