From the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)
September is Suicide Awareness Month
Suicide affects people of all ages, gender, ethnicity, and intellectual ability. According to the Centers for Disease Control, suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States.
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are at risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. During the pandemic isolation and strained relationships have put the people we support, at greater risk. It is important for people who provide care to vulnerable children and adults to recognize possible warning signs and risk factors, and learn how to support a person who is experiencing suicidal thoughts.
To learn about warning signs, risk factors and how to support a person in crisis, please see the following information and resources:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness: Warning Signs, Risk Factors, Support in a Crisis
- Defense Suicide Prevention Office: #BeThere
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Suicide Prevention Strategies
