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:
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:
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Mar. 12, 2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. ― The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is encouraging pet owners to visit free or low-cost rabies vaccination clinics being offered by several veterinary partners in March and April.
Each spring, DPH encourages pet owners to take their pets to a veterinarian for routine care and vaccinations. The agency partners with various veterinarians to help make rabies vaccines easily accessible.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Mar. 10, 2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that a raccoon found near Woodland Shores Road and Saltgrass Pointe Drive in Charleston, S.C., has tested positive for rabies. No people are known to have been exposed at this time. One dog was exposed and will be quarantined as required in the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Mar. 10, 2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. – As National Patient Safety Week is observed March 9-15, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) would like to thank its Healthcare Quality staff for the fundamental role they play in protecting the health, safety and welfare of residents across the state.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Mar. 7, 2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. – In observance of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) will offer free STD/HIV testing at most local health departments on Tuesday, March 11.