September is National Suicide Prevention Month
One conversation can save a life.
Suicide is a public health crisis that affects individuals, families, schools, workplaces, and entire communities. In North Carolina, suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10–18 and the third leading cause of death for adults ages 19–34. In Buncombe County, it is the leading cause of death for people ages 15–24.
The need for awareness has grown even more in Western North Carolina. Mental health experts note that communities recovering from major disasters can experience increased rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide in the months that follow. Locally, emergency department visits for suicidal thoughts and other mental health concerns continue to rise.
While anyone can struggle with suicidal thoughts, some groups face a higher risk, including:
- Youth and young adults
- Veterans
- Older adults, especially men
- LGBTQ+ youth
- People in high-stress professions, including construction and agriculture
- Individuals experiencing trauma, loss, isolation or major life changes.
Know the Warning Signs
Someone may be at risk if they:
- Talk about wanting to die or feeling like a burden
- Withdraw from family and friends
- Experience dramatic mood or behavior changes
- Feel hopeless or trapped
- Give away possessions or say goodbye
You Can Help
If you’re concerned about someone:
- Ask directly if they’re thinking about suicide.
- Listen without judgment.
- Stay with them if they’re in immediate danger.
- Help connect them with professional support.
Recovery is possible and help is available. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. One conversation, one phone call, or one act of compassion can make all the difference.
***DESIGN: PLEASE MAKE RACE FEATURE BELOW BIGGER IN DESIGN AS EVERYTHING WRAPS AROUND THIS MENTAL HEALTH RACE***
All Souls Counseling Invites You!
All Souls Counseling Center was founded in 2000 by community therapists who were concerned when a crisis in accessibility of services occurred following the closing of a mental health facility that served Western North Carolina’s uninsured and underinsured.
If you share our belief that mental health matters and that access to quality care can improve lives, then we invite you to partner with All Souls in our 5k walk/run at UNCA on Sept. 19. This unique family-friendly event aligns brilliantly with organizations committed to promoting community well-being. Go to allsoulscounseling.org.
All Souls Counseling Center presents Mental Health Matters 5K
- Saturday, Sept. 19
- 9-11 a.m. Health and Resource Fair
- 10 a.m. Start @ UNC Asheville
- First 400 signups receive a free t-shirt!
- $50 Jus’ Running gift card for 1st place overall winners
- Medals for top 3 finishers per age group/gender
- NEW! All participants will be professionally chip-timed!
- Cost: $30 through Sept. 4; $35 for Sept. 5-18; $40 race day
4 Ways to Get Involved
- Register to Run
- Become a Vendor
- Volunteer
- Build a Team
All proceeds support All Souls Counseling Center and its mission to provide affordable mental health services in Western North Carolina.