Mental illness and suicide can impact everyone regardless of demographics. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 12.2 million American adults have seriously thought about suicide and nearly 46,000 completed suicide in 2020.

Suicide is preventable and everyone can help a loved one who may need support. Fairfield County Health Department continues to raise awareness, share resources, and promote good mental health across the county.

The Fairfield County Health Department has joined the national campaign to promote the new 988 suicide and crisis lifeline.

If you or someone you know is in crisis or feeling suicidal, please call or text 988 or live chat at 988lifeline.org/chat. Someone is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Suicide is a serious public health problem. Suicide in Ohio has increased by 24% in the past decade. Every year close to 800,000 people take their own life globally and there are many more people who attempt suicide. Every suicide is a tragedy that affects families, communities, and entire countries which has long-lasting effects on the people left behind. However, suicides are preventable with timely, evidence-based, and often low-cost interventions.

So join us, share the message, and do your part because...you matter, we care.