While the world fights the pandemic, health experts say there’s a chronic epidemic that continues to hide in the shadows. September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and in Illinois, one person takes their own life, on average, every six hours. Dr. Dimple Patel, with Illinois Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, says suicidal ideas are often connected to a history of depression or anxiety. However, she notes the fear and isolation related to COVID-19 are also risk factors.
According to the National Health Council, reports of depression and anxiety have skyrocketed since January, and in May, 21-thousand people reported that they’d considered self-harm or suicide. Patel says help is out there, and if you are concerned about your own mental health or a loved one, text the word ‘TALK’ to ‘7-4-1-7-4,’ or call 800-273-TALK.
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