Avera ‘Ask the Question’ Suicide Prevention Campaign

Avera promotes ‘Ask the Question’ campaign for National Suicide Prevention Month

‘Are you thinking about suicide?’ Avera urges direct questions to help those in crisis

Avera marks 5th year of ‘Ask the Question’ suicide prevention initiative

Avera highlights mental health warning signs, resources during Suicide Prevention Month

Direct conversations can save lives: Avera launches annual suicide prevention campaign

Subheadline: In its fifth year, Avera’s initiative encourages friends and families to ask direct questions, recognize critical warning signs, and utilize resources like the 988 Lifeline.

Native Title: Avera promotes ‘Ask the Question’ campaign for Suicide Prevention Month

Meta Title: Avera ‘Ask the Question’ Suicide Prevention Campaign | Health News

Meta Description (157 characters): Avera highlights vital warning signs and urges direct conversations through its annual ‘Ask the Question’ campaign during National Suicide Prevention Month.

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RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – Avera is encouraging people to have direct conversations about suicide as part of its annual Ask the Question campaign during National Suicide Prevention Month.

Now in its fifth year, the campaign encourages people to ask someone who may be struggling, “Are you thinking about suicide?”

Avera said asking directly and with care can open a conversation and help connect someone with support. The campaign began in 2022 and is funded through donations to the Avera Foundation.

Warning signs can include:

• Talking about wanting to die or feeling hopeless.
• Saying they have no reason to live or feel like a burden.
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
• Withdrawing from activities or relationships.
• Changes in sleeping habits or behavior.
• Feeling trapped or experiencing unbearable emotional pain.

Avera also screens patients for suicide risk in primary care clinics and emergency departments through its Zero Suicide initiative.

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. People in Sioux Falls can also seek immediate help at Avera Behavioral Health Urgent Care. Elsewhere, Avera recommends going to the nearest emergency department.

More suicide prevention resources are available through Avera’s Ask the Question campaign.

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