09/30/13 Thursday night, the Senate unanimously passed the resolution offered by Senators Joe Donnelly (D-IN) and Johnny Isakson (R-GA) to promote Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, recognized each year in September. The resolution was cosponsored by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), John Boozman (R-AR), Mark Begich (D-AK), Saxby Chambliss (R-GA), Jon Tester (D-MT), Richard Burr (R-NC), and Jerry Moran (R-KS).
Donnelly said, “This month is an opportunity for us to recognize and discuss suicide prevention, and I am pleased this bipartisan resolution passed the Senate. We need to be vigilant in ensuring that those at risk for suicide are receiving the help they need, and are comfortable asking for it. We can work to combat suicide by educating ourselves on warning signs and risk factors and spreading the word about confidential and free resources available.”
THE FACTS:
– Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States and the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34.
– In total, it is estimated that close to six million Americans have lost a loved one to suicide.
– Servicemembers and veterans of our military are uniquely vulnerable. In 2012 alone, approximately 349 members of the United States Military (active duty, Guard, and Reserve) committed suicide, which is more than the total number of servicemembers who died in combat operations. This number does not include the more than 6,000 veterans who committed suicide in 2012.
The Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached for free, confidential support at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
The Military and Veterans Crisis Line can be reached for free, confidential support at 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1.
For more information on Senator Donnelly’s work on military suicide prevention, click here.
