Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) released the following statement in recognition of National Suicide Prevention Week, which runs from September 10-16, 2017:
“This week, we send a message to everyone struggling with suicidal thoughts and depression: you are not alone. We recognize that depression is not a choice or a failure of willpower but a deadly disease that claims the lives of 44,193 Americans every single year. Depression is treatable and suicide is preventable—but no one can fight these battles alone. In honor of the loved ones we have lost, we must continue to support those who are struggling and ensure access to resources to help them recover.”
If someone tells you that they are considering suicide:
- Take the person seriously.
- Stay with them.
- Help them remove lethal means.
- Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
- Text TALK to 741741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7.
- Escort them to a mental health services or an emergency room.