KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — The Knox County Regional Forensic Center is recognizing National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month throughout September by raising awareness about suicide prevention, mental health resources, and the importance of seeking help.
According to the center, suicide remains a significant public health concern in the United States, with more than 49,000 deaths reported annually, averaging more than 130 deaths each day.
Locally, the Knox County Regional Forensic Center investigates more than 200 suicide deaths each year across East Tennessee, highlighting the continuing impact suicide has on families and communities throughout the region.
“It is a serious public health problem, and it can have lasting, harmful effects on individuals, families and communities,” said Chris Thomas, director and chief administrative officer of the Knox County Regional Forensic Center.
Thomas noted that family members and friends left behind after a suicide often experience prolonged grief, shock, anger, guilt, depression, anxiety, and other emotional challenges.
National Suicide Prevention Week will be observed from September 6 through September 12, with World Suicide Prevention Day taking place on September 10. The observances are designed to encourage public conversations about mental health, promote available resources, remember those lost to suicide, and support individuals who may be struggling.
“The most important step in saving lives is reducing the stigma that surrounds talking about how we feel and what we need,” said Dr. Darinka Mileusnic, chief medical examiner at the Knox County Regional Forensic Center. “It isn’t weak to ask for help, and although no one has all the answers, reaching out isn’t failure.”
As part of the awareness campaign, the Regional Forensic Center plans to release a public service announcement video on its Facebook page at the beginning of September. The video will highlight resources available to individuals experiencing emotional distress or mental health challenges.
Throughout the month, the center will also post additional public service announcements and educational content on social media aimed at increasing public understanding of suicide prevention and encouraging conversations about mental health.
Officials hope the campaign will help reduce stigma, increase awareness of warning signs, and connect more people with lifesaving support services before a crisis occurs.
Anyone experiencing emotional distress or thoughts of self-harm is encouraged to seek help from a mental health professional, contact emergency services, or call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support available 24 hours a day.
