Union County residents will have access to a free webinar focused on suicide prevention this month, as part of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
The virtual session, scheduled for Wednesday, aims to educate the community about crisis resources and prevention strategies.
The event serves as "a reminder that no one is ever truly alone," Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon said in a statement. "Even a small act of compassion can save a life."
According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide ranks as the 11th leading cause of death in the United States, with 49,316 Americans dying by suicide in 2023 -- approximately one death every 11 minutes.
The foundation reports that 12.8 million individuals have seriously contemplated suicide, 3.7 million made plans, and 1.5 million attempted suicide.
The "Life, Connected: How Relationships and Environments Prevent Suicide," webinar, which will be held from 6 to 7 p.m., will be led by Caring Contact.
This webinar will explore how meaningful relationships and supportive environments can help prevent suicide.
The webinar will be available via Zoom and Facebook Live. Residents can register at ucnj.org/mental-health.
For those experiencing a mental health crisis, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988.
For additional information about Union County Human Services programs, residents can visit ucnj.org/dhs or call 908-677-5405.