WHEN SOMEONE'S LIFE IS ON THE LINE

WHEN SOMEONE’S LIFE IS ON THE LINE

2-1-1 Texas Answers the Most Difficult Calls

September 10, 2021

WHEN SOMEONE’S LIFE IS ON THE LINE - United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County

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There are an average of 123 suicides each day in this country. It’s the tenth leading cause of death in America — second leading for ages 25-34, and third leading for ages 15-24¹.

People have become more comfortable talking about their mental health, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. But the topic of suicide – when it comes up – is still scary for many people to think about.

By offering immediate counseling to everyone who may need it, local call/crisis centers like United Way’s 2-1-1 Helpline provide invaluable support at critical times and connect individuals to local services.

Last year, 2-1-1 Texas received 91,338 requests for assistance for mental health and addictions: of those. 17,656 were calls for crisis intervention and suicide².

Here’s a look at the impact across the U.S.:

Individual Impact³:

78% of all people who die by suicide are male.
Although more women than men attempt suicide, men are nearly 4 times more likely to die by suicide.
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death overall in the U.S.
Veteran suicides make up about 14 percent of total suicides in America⁴.
The overall suicide rate in the U.S. has increased by 35% since 1999.
46% of people who die by suicide had a diagnosed mental health condition.

Community Impact³:
Annual prevalence of serious thoughts of suicide, by U.S. demographic group:

4.8% of all adults.
11.8% of young adults aged 18-25.
18.8% of high school students.
46.8% of lesbian, gay and bisexual high school students.
Suicide is the leading cause of death for people held in local jails.

Evidence shows that providing support services, talking about suicide, reducing access to means of self-harm, and following up with loved ones are just some of the actions we can take to help others. Also, please spread the word about the United Way 2-1-1 Helpline as an important resource. It’s a helpline and a lifeline. Sometimes literally.