DYK September is National Suicide Prevention Month? We’ve covered adult + childrens’ mental health resources before, but because mental health affects people year-round, it’s a good time to talk about it — especially since some experts fear the pandemic may drive suicide rates higher. Having lost both friends + family to suicide, I feel it’s particularly important to highlight suicide prevention this year, as it’s been incredibly challenging for virtually everyone.

Thankfully, there are local resources to help those who are struggling.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Western Carolina is using their Facebook page to raise awareness of suicide prevention, including a guide, “Navigating a Mental Health Crisis,” that can be downloaded in English + Spanish. The org also offers a Portable Treatment Record which folks can use to create their own personal crisis plan. NAMI Western Carolina has a variety of additional resources on their website including online support groups, crisis resources, and more – you can check out their community resource list here.

NAMI Western Carolina’s office will remain closed until the state enters Phase 3, but nearly all NC NAMI affiliates have transitioned in-person programs + support groups to virtual meetings. NAMI North Carolina is allowing North Carolina residents to access any affiliate program or support group regardless of where in the state they reside. Find all the NC NAMI programs + groups here.

This is certainly not the only locally-available resource available. Here are some other great ones:

○ Vaya Health

○ The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

○ United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County’s 211 program is available 24/ 7 to help answer questions ranging from housing + employment to food resources + legal issues. You can even search for available resources in your area by entering your address here.

○ If you haven’t already, check out our mental health resource guide.

○ Find info on additional NC mental health centers + clinics, disaster preparedness + more here.

Talking about suicide prevention once during a month dedicated to it is is definitely not the last time we should have this conversation, but it’s a good place to start. Please remember to check on your friends and loved ones who may be struggling during this challenging time.