LA CROSSE (WKBT) – The holidays can be an emotional and stressful time for some people, but a common misconception is that suicide rates go up during this time.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the rate of people dying by suicide is usually at its lowest in December with rates typically peaking in the spring and fall.
Gundersen Health System experts say spreading myths about suicide can actually be harmful to someone who is going through a crisis and considering suicide.
“If someone is already thinking about it, you’re not going to be planting any ideas in their head or making them think about it more,” said the Director of Great Rivers 211, Carla Lundeen. “What you’re going to be doing is gathering more information so you can help them.”
Experts also recommend reaching out to support groups in your area for more information.
If you or someone you know is in need of help, you can call 988, the National Mental Health Crisis and Suicide Prevention Number.
COPYRIGHT 2022 BY NEWS 8 NOW/NEWS 8000. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.
