Each September, Suicide Prevention Month reminds us that hope and help are always within reach. Despite increased awareness, suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States. In 2024, 48,824 Americans died by suicide, making it the 10th leading cause of death nationwide, at a rate of 13.7 per 100,000 people. Yet suicide is preventable when people have the right support, resources, and community around them. By breaking the silence and encouraging open conversations about mental health, we can help save lives.
At Saint Francis Ministries, we work with children, teens, and families who may be facing overwhelming challenges, such as grief, trauma, anxiety, or depression. Our behavioral health services provide care, encouragement, and healing when it’s needed most. Through counseling, therapy, and family support, we help individuals find strength, resilience, and hope amid struggle.
Among the many programs and services Saint Francis provides are those that support mental and behavioral health for young people and adults. These behavioral health programs are also tied to efforts such as Intensive In-Home Prevention Services, which build on families’ strengths and capabilities to resolve issues that place children at risk. Our work helps families better provide for the health and security of their children by teaching communication and parenting skills, providing substance use treatment, and reinforcing positive life choices – all skills that can also help mitigate potential risks of self-harm.
We also know that community plays a vital role in prevention. Each of us can help simply by checking in on a friend, listening without judgment, and reminding someone they are not alone. When we reach out, we help break down stigma and create a culture of compassion and connection.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate, confidential support.
