Although the Mental Health Crisis Line amendments (HB41) was passed during the 2018 general session by the Utah Legislature, Utah still ranks fifth in the nation for suicidality. This bill ensures that Utah’s Suicide Prevention hotlines are staffed 24/7, however, the passing of this bill will not solely reduce suicide in our state. We as people of this state can do so much more.
According to the Utah Suicide Prevention Coalition, every 16 hours a Utahn dies by suicide. This could be your neighbor, a family member, a friend. People of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses could be vulnerable to suicidality as mental illnesses does not discriminate.
There is still so much stigma surrounding mental health which prevents many people from asking for help and knowing what resources are available to them. The Suicide Prevention Lifeline and local resources such as crisis centers are not talked about enough. We as people can learn to identify the warning signs but most importantly we need to talk about mental illness and bring awareness to this problem.
By talking, more people become educated and the stigma surrounding mental health can be reduced one conversation at a time. Suicide is 100% preventable and if you or if you know anyone who needs help, please contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Emily Rodriguez
Ogden