MARSHALL — No person is exempt to the risk of suicide. It happens in all races and cultures and impacts every walk of life. Even though suicide is a shared risk, there is still hope, via education and awareness and opportunities to discuss the issue, especially throughout September, which is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

“Suicide affects people of all ages,” said Mobile Coordinator Megan Benedict of Western Mental Health Center in Marshall. “Some groups have higher suicide rates than others such as veterans, people in rural areas or that work in high stress or even isolating industries. Risks also vary based on age, gender, race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation.”

According to Benedict, initial information from the Minnesota Department of Health indicates the state has a rate of 13.9 deaths per 100,000 which is the same data from 2023. Per the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), there were an estimated 1.5 million suicide attempts nationwide in 2023. Warning signs of suicide can include mood swings and investigating methods of self harm.

“Someone will talk about wanting to die or being a burden to others,” Benedict said. “They will have feelings of hopelessness, having no reason to live, extremely sad, and have unbearable emotional or physical pain. They may have changes in behavior such as making a plan or researching ways to die, withdrawing from friends, saying goodbye, giving away importance items or making a will, taking dangerous risks such as driving too fast, eating or sleeping less often, using drugs or alcohol more often.”

While it can be scary to think a loved one might being zed suicidal, Benedict says it’s important to keep communication open and help get that individual to a safe place. Also, staying aware of warning signs, being an active listener, and encouraging the person to get professional help are also vital.

“Ask the person if they are thinking about suicide,” she said. “Saying it out loud will not create the thought so don’t be afraid to ask. Be there for the person. Help keep them safe, and help them connect by calling the local crisis line (1-800-658-2429) or the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988). Then follow up with them or stay in touch so that they know that they have your support.”

To learn about and stay educated on suicide prevention, Benedict suggests requesting QPR (Question, Persuade, Referred) trainings. To host a QPR training, reach out to Western Mental Health Center or visit the QPR website. Further, Benedict says suicide is sometimes brought on by difficult situations and mental heath conditions but stresses not all persons dealing with a tough circumstance or with a mental health condition are suicidal. For those struggling, Benedict advises breathing, speaking to someone, and taking each moment one at a time.

“Some people cope by going for a walk/exercising,” she said. “Some cope by reading a book or watching a funny movie, and some cope by finding their supports. Everyone is different so try different things and see what works for you.”