September is National Suicide Prevention Month.
Suicide is a major public health concern, and prevention efforts are critical. However, lack of awareness and stigma surrounding mental health often prevent people from having conversations that could save lives. By raising awareness and breaking down barriers, we can help more people access the support and care they need.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more than 48,000 lives in 2024. While suicide is a serious concern, it is often preventable. If someone you know is struggling emotionally or facing difficult life circumstances, your support can make a critical difference in helping them get the care they need.
Recognize the warning signs
One of the most effective ways to prevent suicide is to recognize the warning signs. These signs can help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss or change. Seek professional help right away if you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs or symptoms:
- Talking about wanting to die or end their life.
- Looking for ways to end their life, such as searching online or purchasing a weapon.
- Talking about feelings of hopelessness, being trapped or experiencing unbearable emotional pain.
- Talking about being a burden to others.
- Increased use of alcohol or other substances.
- Acting anxious or agitated, behaving recklessly, or isolating themselves from family and friends.
- Exhibiting extreme mood swings, displaying intense anger or talking about seeking revenge.
Help is just a phone call away
If a friend, co-worker, family member or someone you know talks or behaves in a way that makes you believe the person may attempt suicide, don't try to handle the situation alone. The Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) Crisis Line (607-762-2302) is a community hotline number available for anyone who is having suicidal thoughts, just needs someone to talk to or a family member seeking guidance on what to do next.
Bringing care into the community
In addition to the crisis line, UHS offers a Mobile Crisis Outreach Program, which provides person-centered support for individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis. The program helps connect people with emotional support, crisis intervention, safety planning, mental health assessments, medication evaluations and referrals to appropriate community resources and outpatient services.
The Mobile Crisis Outreach team includes licensed clinical social workers, peer support specialists and care management staff who work under the direction of UHS Psychiatry and CPEP. Services are available to anyone in the community, not just individuals who have been seen in CPEP. Team members can meet with individuals in their homes, by phone, at school, in a medical office, or in another safe community setting. The goal is to provide support where people are most comfortable, helping to de-escalate crises, reduce unnecessary Emergency Department visits and connect individuals with ongoing care.
The program also partners with local school districts and community organizations and offers peer support services that help individuals navigate mental health challenges and remain connected to treatment and community resources.
Contact Mobile Crisis Outreach:
- Mobile Crisis Outreach Team: Mon-Fri, 8 am to 4 pm
- 607-762-2809
- 607-762-2262
- 24/7 Crisis Line:
- 607-762-2302
- 800-451-0560
Additional crisis resources
Additional crisis resources have trained professionals who can assess the situation and identify potential needs and healthy outcomes that alter suicidal thoughts or behaviors and are available 24 hours per day:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 to reach trained crisis counselors. Services are free and confidential. Individuals can also access support through the Lifeline’s online chat service.
- Veterans Crisis Line: U.S. veterans or service members in crisis can call 988 and press "1" for the Veterans Crisis Line, text 838255 or chat online.
- Spanish language support: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers Spanish language services at 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free).
Raising awareness throughout September
Throughout September, UHS leaders, medical staff and employees are working to raise public awareness about the issue of suicide prevention and the importance of seeking support.
A community-wide event, “Chalk the Walk” will take place on Thursday, September 10 from 10 am to 2 pm at UHS Binghamton General Hospital and UHS Wilson Medical Center. People are encouraged to draw positive messages and artwork that promote hope, resilience and suicide awareness. Representatives from the UHS Behavioral Health team will be there to encourage artistic expression and provide support and resources.
UHS will also participate in the “Out of the Darkness Walk” on Sunday, October 4, at Otsiningo Park in Binghamton. The walk focuses on suicide prevention and is a great opportunity for our community to come together to bring hope and healing to those affected by suicide.
If you are struggling with your mental health, help is available. The UHS Outpatient Mental Health Clinic provides programs designed to meet the emotional and psychological needs of adults (ages 18 and older) with mental health concerns. We strive to make our patients feel as comfortable as possible and provide them with a confidential, supportive environment to ensure quality care.