DPH Recognizes Suicide Prevention Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 10, 2024

COLUMBIA, S.C. – As World Suicide Prevention Day is observed Sept. 10, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) aims to raise awareness, spread hope and share vital information on how everyone can play a role in suicide prevention.  

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually during Suicide Prevention Week (Sept. 8-14) and Suicide Prevention Month (September).  

Suicide was the 12th-leading cause of death in South Carolina in 2021, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), and was the third-leading cause of death for those aged 10 to 34. As outlined in DPH’s most-recent detailed mortality statistics, suicide accounted for 849 deaths in South Carolina in 2022.  

“Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone of any age and walk of life, and, while common, should be addressed with care and sincerity,” said Kacey Schmitt, DPH’s Director of Social Work. “It can be hard to do, but it is vital that we have these important conversations with loved ones and others we care about.” 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers the following warning signs of suicide:  

• Comments or thoughts about suicide  
• Increased alcohol and drug use  
• Aggressive behavior  
• Withdrawal from friends, family and community   
• Mood swings  
• Impulsive or reckless behavior  

It is important to remember that many people who commit suicide have not been previously diagnosed with a mental health disorder or seen a mental health provider.  Suicide can occur after the loss of a close relationship or job, and being under the influence of alcohol or drugs increases one’s risk. 

Because friends and family are often caught off-guard, unprepared and unsure of what to do when a mental health crisis occurs, NAMI created a mental health resource guide to help people experiencing mental health emergencies and their loved ones.  

“We want all South Carolinians to know that there are resources available to help them or their loved ones in a time of need,” said Dr. Edward Simmer, DPH interim director. “These resources can be lifesaving to someone experiencing a mental health crisis, so it’s important that we make everyone aware that help is readily available.” 

In South Carolina, the following options are also available to those in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress:  

• The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support via a mental health professional with the Lifeline network. To connect, call or text 988.  
• The South Carolina Department of Mental Health Mobile Crisis clinicians provide 24/7 community-based crisis response anywhere in South Carolina. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, contact DMH's Mobile Crisis Team at 833-364-2274.  
• The SCDMH Deaf Services Hotline is dedicated to people who are deaf or hard of hearing and in crisis or in need of resources. It is also available to contact for hospital consultation, telepsychiatry interpreter requests and mental health center referrals. The Deaf Services Hotline is available 24/7, statewide, at 803-339-3339 (VP) or deafhotline@scdmh.org.   
• The Crisis Text Line is a nationwide resource for anyone in need of crisis assistance but who is not able or ready to call into a resource line. South Carolina has its own code for the line. South Carolinians can reach the Crisis Text Line 24/7, toll-free, by texting HOPE4SC to 741-741 (Español: “AYUDA” to 741-741). Texts to this line do not use your data or show up on your phone bill.  
• If a situation escalates into a crisis, you may have to call 911. NAMI offers advice for calling 911 and talking with police during a mental health crisis.  

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