HHSA Training Hundreds to Recognize Suicide Warning Signs

Suicide claims the life of about one San Diegan every day. Last year, 372 suicides were reported in the region. But suicide is preventable. Most individuals contemplating suicide often display one or more warning signs.

On September 2, County and local mental health officials held a news conference to announce the availability of trainings to educate people—police officers, teachers, ministers, doctors, nurses, firefighters, parents, friends and many others—about the warning signs of suicide and how to question, persuade, and refer someone to help.

Trainings will occur in September for 600 participants, and again in November for 300 more. Later in the month of September, the County will release a community Suicide Prevention Action Plan. The campaign is a part of the Live Well, San Diego! 10-year strategy toward Fostering Safe Communities and encouraging people to seek help and reduce stigma.

The It’s Up to Us campaign website (www.Up2SD.org) has resources for suicide prevention, helping others, and taking action. Help is available 24/7 by calling the County’s Access and Crisis Line at (800) 479-3339.