CONTACT: Ms. Velvet Reda
redav@mharockland.org
845-267-2172 x257
MEDIA ADVISORY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION OF ROCKLAND IS YEAR-ROUND RESOURCE FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION
Valley Cottage, NY – As National Suicide Prevention Month ends, Mental Health Association of Rockland (MHA of Rockland) continues to be a year-round resource for those who struggle with suicidal thoughts. In addition, the agency offers a program for people who have lost a loved one to suicide. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, on average, one person dies by suicide every five hours in New York.
“Suicide rates may increase as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic as people struggle with isolation, financial stress and loss,” said Stephanie Madison, President & CEO. “Individuals with pre-existing mental health challenges including anxiety, depression and substance use disorders are especially vulnerable if left untreated. We offer hope because proper treatment can lead to healthy lives and prevent suicide.”
One major risk factor for suicide is impairment due to substance use, which can cause someone to act impulsively and make life-altering decisions that they might not make while sober. Stress and isolation stemming from COVID-19 make everyone more vulnerable to misusing substances or jeopardizing earlier recovery success. MHA of Rockland’s clinic offers counseling, medication assisted treatment, and peer support to those whose lives have been touched by substance use, either their own use or a loved one’s. For information about any of these programs, call 845-267-2172, x296.
Facts About Suicide in the United States
- On average, one person dies by suicide every 40 seconds.
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10-34, and the fourth leading cause of death in individuals between the ages of 35-55.
- In 2018, men died by suicide 3.56 times more often than women.
For More Information on the Mental Health Association of Rockland
- Call 845-267-2172 x296 or visit www.MHARockland.org.
Emergencies
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide:
- Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
- Text TALK to 741741 to text with a trained crisis counselor from the Crisis Text Line for free, 24/7.
- Call 911 or go to a hospital emergency room.
About Mental Health Association of Rockland
The Mental Health Association of Rockland is the premier provider of behavioral health services in the community, engaging more than 5,000 individuals annually. MHA of Rockland consistently strives to improve the quality of life for those affected by mental health and/or substance use issues. They offer a vast array of therapeutic, peer and residential services. For more information, please visit www.mharockland.org.