In the last twenty years, national suicide rates have risen by 25%. In Santa Barbara, twenty-eight community members committed suicide just this year, while many others, especially young people, remain at risk. To combat these statistics and promote suicide awareness, the Santa Barbra community came together during National Suicide Prevention week on Sunday, September 9, for an “Out of the Darkness” community walk at Leadbetter Beach.
If you or someone you know is thinking about hurting themselves, call 9-1-1 or the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 (800) 273-8255. For more information on suicide prevention, including warning signs and risk factors, visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org. A list of regional resources can be found at countyofsb.org/admhs.
