FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Shedding light on the topic of suicide is crucial.

“Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for people in the United States and in the world,” says NAMI Fresno Executive Director, Dr. Amy Parks. “It’s the second leading cause of death for young people ages 10 to 34.”

Having conversations about suicide is never easy, nor is it comfortable. However, it’s important to have these difficult discussions because they let people know they are not alone in their mental health struggles.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use issues, or other mental health crises, please call or text the new three-digit code: **988**. You will reach a trained crisis counselor for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also visit [988lifeline.org](https://988lifeline.org).

“I think sometimes people worry that if they ask about suicide, it’s going to give somebody the idea or maybe empower them,” Dr. Parks said. “Actually, it does the opposite. It helps them feel connected and supported, and it helps to kind of normalize those feelings.”

It can be as simple as asking, “Are you okay?”

Suicide doesn’t only affect young people. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that at least 1 in 20 adults has serious thoughts of suicide each year. Dr. Parks further explains that older adults, especially those over 85, are also at risk.

“Loneliness, isolation, disconnection from family and friends,” she said, “New health diagnoses can also be a factor, as well as not wanting to go through a long, difficult illness.”

While it can be hard to find help or know if you need it, resources are available. In addition to the 988 crisis line, support groups like those at NAMI Fresno can provide assistance.

Dr. Parks encourages everyone to take that first step toward seeking help—it can make all the difference.
https://abc30.com/post/mental-health-leaders-hope-break-stigma-during-suicide-prevention-month/17911975/