The City of West Hollywood recognizes National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September.
Since 2008, September has been designated as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month to acknowledge those affected by suicide, raise awareness, and connect individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts with treatment services. This recognition provides an opportunity for the City of West Hollywood to honor lives lost to suicide and educate residents about available resources, including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The month also aims to address public perception, reduce stigma, and share crucial information with those impacted by suicide. Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
Community members experiencing a behavioral health crisis are encouraged to call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. In the Los Angeles area, Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services operates the 988 Call Center. When calling 988, individuals are connected to trained counselors who assess the situation and provide resources, including referrals to the West Hollywood Care Team, if needed.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that suicide is a significant issue across demographics. It is the second leading cause of death among children aged 10 to 14 and the third leading cause of death among people aged 15 to 24. Although more women attempt suicide than men, men are four times more likely to die by suicide and account for 79% of all suicide deaths. The highest suicide rates in the U.S. are among American Indian/Alaskan Native people, followed by non-Hispanic White people. LGBTQ+ youth are nearly four times more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual youth, and transgender adults are almost nine times more likely to attempt suicide than the general population. In 2021, 1.7 million adults attempted suicide, and 48,183 people died by suicide. More than 90% of those who died are believed to have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition.
For more information, contact the City of West Hollywood’s Human Services Division at (323) 848-6510.
