Suicide Prevention Month aims to increase awareness of resources

(WKBN) – September marks National Suicide Prevention Month, shedding light on the resources available to help those in need.

Five Ohioans die of suicide every day, according to the Health Policy Institute of Ohio.

With the cooler months right around the corner, it inevitably causes people to stay indoors, increasing that feeling of isolation. Social media also plays a role in decreasing face-to-face interactions.

It’s particularly a theme among young people, and health officials are urging parents to have a conversation with their kids.

“So you really have to hit it early. You have to talk about healthy habits, to begin with, as you’re raising your kids — what are good boundaries, and what are good relationships, and what are not so good things to do. I don’t think you hide things from kids, but I don’t think you overexpose them to things either. It’s just sitting down and showing them that genuineness, and kindness and honesty with your kids,” said Mike Tornow, Belmont Pines Hospital’s director of Clinical Services.

Those struggling with suicidal thoughts can call 988 to talk to someone.

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