Suicide is a major public health concern.
In fact, more than 49,000 die by it each year in the U.S. – an average of more than 130 deaths per day. And, in Knox County, the Regional Forensic Center investigates more than 200 suicides per year in East Tennessee.
“It is a serious public health problem, and it can have lasting, harmful effects on individuals, families and communities,” said Chris Thomas, the director and chief administrative officer of the Knox County RFC. “When people die by suicide, their surviving family and friends may experience prolonged grief, shock, anger, guilt, symptoms of depression or anxiety, and even thoughts of suicide themselves.”
The Knox County RFC will observe National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month throughout September to increase understanding of suicide and mental health in our community.
This year, World Suicide Prevention Day is Sept.10 and National Suicide Prevention Week runs Sept. 6 through Sept. 12. Both are also a time to share resources and stories and remember those affected by suicide while focusing efforts on directing treatment to those who need it most.
“The most important step in saving lives is reducing the stigma that surrounds talking about how we feel and what we need,” said Dr. Darinka Mileusnic, the chief medical examiner at the Knox County RFC. “It isn’t weak to ask for help, and although no one has all the answers, reaching out isn’t failure.”
The Knox County RFC at the beginning of September will release a public service announcement via a short video posted on the organization’s Facebook page that touches on the resources available to help. Additionally, throughout the month, the RFC will update its social media with PSAs designed to increase awareness and educate the public about suicide.
