JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – Across the nation, communities are raising awareness for Suicide Prevention Month.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death in Mississippi among 15 to 24-year-olds, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Resources, such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline , are available. Shatter the Silence is a campaign by the Mississippi Department of Mental Health (MDMH). The campaign encourages young people to talk through their feelings with trusted friends and family.

NAMI Mississippi , Hinds Behavioral Health Services and other outreach programs are available throughout the state.

Statistics show one in five people will experience a mental illness during their lifetime.

“From a parent’s perspective, I feel that parents should take some time, just take a moment, listen to the youth. If you feel uncomfortable with how to respond, you can always call 988 and get some guidance on how to respond to that situation. You can also call, but the most important thing is taking time to actually listen to what is going on with their youth and being able to do the best you can,” said Ja’Quila Newsome, director of suicide prevention at MDMH.

The agency will host its annual Suicide Prevention Symposium on September 17. The event is free.

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