Youth Suicide Prevention

Each September is National Suicide Prevention Month – a month to remember the lives lost to suicide, the millions of people who have struggled with suicidal ideation, and acknowledge the individuals, families, and communities that have been impacted. It is also a time to raise awareness about suicide prevention and share messages of hope.

Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.

In September Yellowhawk kicks it up and strives to ensure we increase awareness of this stigmatized, and often taboo, topic. We use this month to shift public perception, spread hope and share vital information to people affected by suicide. Our goal is ensuring that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.

For more information call our Behavioral Health Department at 541.240.8670. We are here for you.

In 2022, 109 Oregon youths died by suicide, compared to 95 in 2021. Despite this increase between 2021 and 2022, the three-year trend for youth suicide is still trending down from the peak in 2018 when 129 youths died by suicide.

Suicide remains the second-leading cause of death among people ages five to 24.

The 2022 data show that Oregon had the 12th highest youth suicide rate in the United States. There is more work to do to ensure our progress in past years is not lost, as the risk of youth suicide continues to be a concern in Oregon.

• • • If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately.
    • If you are uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can chat the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.
    • Community Warm Line, Non-Crisis Line, 541.969.0010