The month of September is dedicated to suicide prevention.

Suicide is the act of taking one’s own life and has become an important health and social issue.

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), suicide accounted for 12.6 deaths for every 100,000 people nationwide. In 2013, there were 41,149 reported suicides, a suicide every 12.9 minutes.

Suicide is also the third leading cause of death for 15 to 24-year-olds.

Factors that contribute to suicide include mental disorders such as major depression, schizophrenia or other personality disorders. Oftentimes, suicide victims with such a disorder have not addressed the illness or were not properly treated for it.

Previous suicide attempts, a family history of suicide, exposure to someone else’s suicide or prolonged stress factors like harassment or bullying increase one’s risk of becoming suicidal.

Recognizing the warning signs of suicide is essential. Those who are suicidal often isolate themselves from family and friends, withdraw from activities, experience  a loss of interest, anger, depression and anxiety, have increased usage of drugs or alcohol and talk about killing themselves. The risk of suicide increases greatly if such feelings are related to a devastating loss or change.

If family members or friends display unusual behavior, it is important that they are tended to. According to helpguide.org, supporting them, speaking to or listening to their feelings are effective ways to help. One should never argue with a possibly suicidal person or use phrases such as “look at the bright side” or “you have so much to live for.”

Having safety plans in times of suicidal crisis, removing items that may trigger suicide such as pills, knives or razor blades, encouraging healthy lifestyle choices and speaking to a therapist are all ways to help someone who wants to commit suicide. In the end, it can save lives.

Suicide is a growing issue and it is everyone’s responsibility to help others, if possible.

Help is available at  the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1 (800) 273-8255).