Suicide Prevention Awareness – Our work is not yet done. Let’s promote hope and connectedness.

September marks Suicide Prevention Month. Recent national polls indicate that 94% of adults believe suicide can be prevented. Unfortunately, we continue to see dramatic increases in the number of youth who need care. The latest stats are sobering: 

• Almost 48,000 people died by suicide in 2021;
• That’s 1 death every 11 minutes; and
• 12 million adults thought about suicide and over 3 million made a plan.

Suicide is preventable. We are listening. 
As a behavioral healthcare provider right here in Olive Branch, MS in the MidSouth region, our team at Parkwood Behavioral Health System is dedicated to #BeThere during #SPM23 (Suicide Prevention Month 2023) in a manner that promotes connectedness and recovery. Culturally relevant mental health services, evidence-based treatments and support are available. We are listening – and we can help. 

If you or someone you love is experiencing an emotional crisis or thoughts of suicide, 24/7 assessments are available by contacting us directly or you may contact:  
• 988, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline that provides 24/7, no-cost and confidential support for individuals in distress, including prevention and crisis resources. Text, chat or call today. Trained crisis counselors are ready to serve. 
• The Veterans Crisis Line for U.S. Military Veterans, call 988, press 1. 
• Trevor Lifeline, the only national 24/7 lifeline for LGBTQ youth, at 1-866-488-7386. 

We want our community to know we are in this together, and each of us has a role to play in suicide prevention throughout the year and especially in September. 

Sincerely, 

Alicia Plunkett, DNP, PMHN- BC
CEO/Managing Director
Parkwood Behavioral Health System