South San Francisco, CA  September 5, 2023 Submitted by Sheri Boles

National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988

San Mateo County is joining statewide and nationwide efforts for the following Suicide Prevention Month (SPM) observances. SPM is one of the best times of the year where we can honor those affected by suicide and inspire action to prevent suicide.

• Suicide Prevention Month (September)
• National Suicide Prevention Week (September 10-16)
• World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10)

The 2023 SPM statewide theme is “Share Hope Together”. The act of sharing, whether that be sharing hope, stories, time, resources, or experiences, can serve as a powerful tool in suicide prevention.

This year, San Mateo County Behavioral Health & Recovery Services’ Office of Diversity & Equity, San Mateo County Suicide Prevention Committee and San Mateo County Mayors Mental Health Initiative lead a variety of virtual and in-person events, advocacy days and communication campaign. For the latest updates on free events and resources, you can visit smchealth.org/SPM.

Add Your Voice to World Suicide Prevention Day

Sept. 10th is World Suicide Prevention Day. This is an opportunity to join millions of others around the globe to focus public attention on preventing suicide through diverse activities to promote understanding about suicide and highlight effective prevention activities. For example:  Light a candle near a window at 8pm to show your support, remember a lost loved one, and for the survivors of suicide.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, contact our 24/7 crisis hotlines:             
Call 650-579-0350 or 988
Text “Bay” to 741-741 or 988
Visit SanMateoCrisis.org

Pain Isn’t always Obvious.

Every day in California friends, family and co-workers struggle with emotional pain. And, for some, it’s too difficult to talk about the pain, thoughts of suicide and the need for help. Though the warning signs can be subtle, they are there. By recognizing these signs, knowing how to start a conversation and where to turn for help, you have the power to make a difference – the power to save a life.

CLICK HERE

To learn the signs, how to start a conversation and to find additional resources via SuicideISPreventable.org

Suicide is preventable. You can be the one to help.

Most people having suicidal thoughts are in a temporary, serious crisis. You can be the one to provide the support and help they need by taking three steps: know the signs of someone who is having suicidal thoughts, find the words to have a direct conversation with them and reach out for help from the many county resources available to those in crisis and their loved ones.

Whether you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, or are concerned about a loved one who might be, you are not alone. The San Mateo County community stands together to support those who are struggling and guide them to the help they need.

For immediate help, you can reach out for 24/7 free confidential crisis support:

• Call the San Mateo County Crisis Line (run by Starvista) at 1-650-579-0350 or visit sanmateocrisis.org 
• Text “BAY” to 741741

• National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: call or text 988

More resources from the County website

Visit the San Mateo County Health Website for more information CLICK HERE

What to Do in a Crisis

How to Support Someone

Suicide Prevention Trainings

Suicide Prevention Month 

Suicide Prevention Roadmap

Suicide Survivors and Messages of Hope

Suicide Prevention Committee

Additional Resources