Difficult Conversations are Worth Having

“He was too young.” Those were the words that echoed in my mind when I learned about a friend’s death by suicide. Like so many others, I tried to rationalize it, desperately searching for answers to the question “Why?” But the hard truth is this: it was a choice—a deeply personal, agonizing decision made in a moment of unimaginable isolation. And no matter how much we want to understand or intervene, it’s a choice none of us have the right to judge. What we do have the right—and the responsibility—to do is to step up, as individuals and as a society. Suicide is an epidemic, and it’s an excruciating reminder that we need to be better. We need to be more aware. We need to do more to support those struggling with their mental health. 

The statistics are sobering. Suicide rates are rising across the board, with clear disparit

• In 2022, the highest rates of suicide were among non-Hispanic, American Indian, Alaska Native communities, and non-Hispanic White individuals. (CDC, 2022)

• Men, who make up 50% of the population, account for nearly 80% of suicides, with their suicide rate being four times higher than that of females. (CDC, 2022)

• People aged 75 and older have the highest rates of suicide. (CDC, 2022)
  
  

Our mental health system is in crisis. It is underfunded, overburdened, and too often inaccessible or traumatizing. But we don’t have to wait for the system to catch up. We can make a difference, right now. 

Here’s how: 

• Educate yourself to recognize the warning signs of someone in crisis. 

• Understand the risk factors that contribute to suicide. 

• Seek out trainings in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. 

• Challenge the stigma—normalize open, honest conversations about mental health. 

• Advocate for better resources, funding, and support systems for those in need. 

• Society needs to do better in improving communities by addressing economic, social, housing, and food insecurity, along with other factors that impact mental health and wellness.

Every 11 minutes, someone dies by suicide. These people are not just statistics. They are our family members, our friends, our neighbors, colleagues, and teammates. In the next 11 minutes, I urge you to take action. Reach out to someone who might be struggling. Learn something new about suicide prevention. Let those minutes be the beginning of a future where fewer lives are lost.  

Because those 11 minutes could be the difference between life and death. The difference between despair and hope. 

Resources

24/7 California Peer Run Warm Line, Mental Health Association of San Francisco
Website
855-600-WARM (9276) 
The Warm Line provides accessible mental health support by using the wisdom of lived experience to connect, inspire hope, and empower our community toward unlimited recovery. 

24/7 Crisis Line, Crisis Support Services of Alameda County
Website
800-309-2131
If you or someone you know is struggling with difficult life circumstances or uncomfortable thoughts and emotions, we are here to help. You do not need to be experiencing suicidal thoughts or feelings to call. 

Friendship Line (60+ year old line)
Website
888-670-1360
Institute on Aging’s 24-hour toll-free Friendship Line is the only accredited crisis line in the country for people aged 60 years and older, and adults living with disabilities. The Friendship Line is both a crisis intervention hotline and a warmline for non-urgent calls. In addition to receiving incoming calls, Friendship Line also offers outreach. 

HIV Nightline
Website
415-434-2437
The HIV/AIDS Nightline responds to calls annually from all over the United States. People call us for many reasons, such as needing emotional support after testing positive, living with HIV/AIDS or to ask questions about HIV transmission risks. The Nightline is often the only resource open for immediate support because of our unique hours.

StrongHearts Native Helpline
Website
844-762-8483
StrongHearts Native Helpline is a 24/7 safe, confidential and anonymous domestic and sexual violence helpline for Native Americans and Alaska Natives, offering culturally-appropriate support and advocacy.

CalHOPE Redline
Website
888-368-4090
M-F 9:00am-5:00pmThe CalHope Redline exists to realize a future where all AIAN peoples across California have access to AIAN-specific wellness resources that empower them with the tools and services they need in order to build resiliency and navigate through crisis.