Mental health experts call for improved suicide prevention and reduced stigma

During Suicide Prevention Month, health experts and families are highlighting the critical need for improved mental health support and the reduction of social stigma. According to the World Health Organization, over 720,000 people die by suicide annually, making it the third-leading cause of death globally for individuals aged 15 to 29.

In the United States, CDC data from 2024 indicates nearly 49,000 deaths by suicide. The agency estimates that 14.3 million adults seriously considered suicide, 4.6 million planned an attempt, and 2.2 million attempted it. Experts, including Dr. Christine Moutier of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, note that stigma often causes people to conceal suicidal thoughts or prevents loved ones from intervening effectively.

Community leaders and families are sharing personal stories to encourage open dialogue. In Chicago, NAMI representative Jasmine Watkins advises looking for signs such as isolation, changes in mood, or discussions about feeling like a burden. Dr. Lance Wallace, father of the late Chicago DJ Landon Wallace, has also spoken out about his son's death to encourage others to discuss mental health openly rather than waiting for a crisis.