Suicide in Utah 2013

31 August

UtahMy heart sank earlier this week as I read the latest news from one of Utah’s papers reporting on the number of suicides in Utah this year. 

Every other year I publish a report on the vital stats of Utah with suicide being the main focus.  While I always have to make amendments on the final numbers that come in from the health department I was taken aback at their final tally this last time.

For 2012 Utah saw 562 suicides (I had hoped it wouldn’t exceed 512). I was also very saddened to read this year they’re projecting the numbers to be even higher.

From June 1st to July 31, 2013 there were 101 suicides.

I want to be sure I’m very clear when I say that if you’re reading this and you need help or know someone who does, I’m begging you, please call one of the toll free numbers listed here to get confidential help.

1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)

1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)

Deaf Hotline:

1-800-799-4TTY (4889)

There are a number of reasons why people commit suicide and as you might expect it’s not the result stemming from one issue in someone’s life.  For the past few years Utah has finally stepped up to the plate to bump up their intervention in trying to prevent the loss of life in addition to focusing on the root cause.

I believe this is a step in the right direction, but I still think they need to incorporate all possible reasons why this happens instead of brushing something aside as a non-possibility. The one thing I think they’re brushing aside?  You got it, Mormonism.

I’m asking everyone to please, please pray for this issue!

With Love in Christ;

Michelle

Tags: , , ,

No comments yet.

Leave a Reply