Raising Awareness

NAMI Suicide info graphic

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month provides a dedicated time to come together and start a dialogue about mental health conditions and suicide prevention. It’s a time to raise awareness to help ensure that individuals, families, and friends have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and seek help.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10–34 and the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S.
The overall suicide rate (in the U.S.) has increased by 35 percent since 1999 (NAMI).

According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, there’s no single cause for suicide. Depression, anxiety, and substance problems - especially those that aren’t addressed - are conditions that increase the risk of suicide. Learning more about the risk factors and warning signs can save lives.

Risk factors include:

  • Mental health conditions that include depression, substance use problems, anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia.

  • A family history of suicide.

  • A history of trauma or abuse.

  • Stressful life events such as divorce, financial crisis, other life transitions.

  • A recent tragedy or loss.

  • A serious or chronic medical illness.

  • Prolonged stress, for example from unemployment, bullying, or relationship problems.

There are a number of warning signs that a person may exhibit through what they say, as well as through their behavior and mood. Warning signs include:

  • Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live.

  • Talking about killing themselves.

  • Withdrawing from activities.

  • Withdrawing from friends, family, and community.

  • Increased alcohol or drug use.

  • Aggressive behavior.

  • Dramatic mood swings.

  • Loss of interest.

  • Giving away possessions.

  • Saying goodbye to friends and family.

It’s important to know that suicidal thoughts can affect anyone - regardless of age, gender or background - and often indicate more serious issues. Not taking these thoughts seriously can have devastating outcomes.

If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988 (which was the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s dialing code of 800-273-TALK previous to 988) or call 911 immediately.

Recent News

by Kerry Zingaro

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OCES Announces Expansion to Serve More - The organization now serves 34 communities across Plymouth County and the South Shore

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts, has expanded its territory to serve 11 additional towns in the South Shore.

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Putting the Spotlight on Local Caregivers During National Family Caregivers Month – OCES Encourages Caregiver Nominations through October 12th

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 According to the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP’s Caregiving in the US 2025 report, one in four adults, 63 million Americans, are family caregivers. A significant number of family caregivers care for adults with complex medical conditions or disabilities, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

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OCES Announces Upcoming LGBTQ+ Brunches for Older Adults

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The monthly Saturday brunch program, operated and supported by OCES’ Nutrition Program, is for LGBTQ+ older adults who live on the South Shore and in the greater Plymouth County area.

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by Kerry Zingaro

Hundreds participate in local marches to raise awareness of elder abuse.

In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) in June, two Marches Against Elder Abuse events brought hundreds together to raise awareness about elder abuse.

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JULY ARTICLE: Maintaining and Celebrating Independence as We Age

As we celebrate Independence Day on July 4th, it also reminds us of another meaningful form of independence, one that is deeply valued across all cultures and communities, including the Cape Verdean and Asian communities, where older adults are honored for their wisdom, resilience, and important role within the family. Maintaining independence while aging is not only about remaining at home safely, but also about preserving dignity, cultural connections, and quality of life.  

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by Kerry Zingaro

Community Options Ep. 322 - July is National Minority Mental Health Month

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