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Caring for your own and others' mental health

September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month – Explore resources for yourself, your practice and your patients

During September and throughout the year, Magellan invites our network providers to join us in increasing awareness about the signs of suicide—in yourself and others—along with the importance of speaking up when help is needed.

According to the CDC, more than 48,000 people died by suicide in 2021. That is 1 death every 11 minutes. 12.3 million adults seriously thought about suicide. 3.5 million adults made a plan. 1.7 million adults attempted suicide.

Having an open, supportive conversation can be a lifeline for a person who’s thinking about ending their life.

With the right help, people can overcome temporary, self-destructive impulses and regain a sense of equilibrium. You can play a vital role in this process.

Resources for you, your practice and your patients/clients

For additional support in helping suicidal individuals, access Magellan’s resources for Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (in English and Spanish), including this tip sheet you can share on overcoming thoughts of suicide (PDF).

You’ll also find digital signs, flyers, posters and more—including a mental health wordsearch puzzle (PDF)—you can use in your practice to promote awareness and reduce stigma about this vital issue.

Plus, take a look at how Magellan is incorporating new technologies to identify members who might be at risk. Also consider how schools can play a crucial role in early intervention for youth mental health.   

Knowing the risk factors and recognizing the warning signs for suicide can help prevent suicide

That’s why we also encourage you to share suicide prevention resources from our Healthwise library (search keyword “suicide”) with anyone you know who could benefit, especially Magellan members in your care.

The following protective measures can help those with suicidal ideation:   Contact with providers, e.g., receiving follow-up phone calls from a healthcare professional. Immediate access to trained crisis counselors via 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Connection and relationships with family, friends, community and social institutions. Learning problem-solving and conflict resolution skills. Collaboration between primary care and behavioral healthcare providers

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, call or text 988 or chat (988lifeline.org), 24/7 for free and confidential support.