Suicide remains a significant public health concern, with ongoing efforts to prevent it throughout the year. While September is designated as Suicide Prevention Month, Fairfax County officials stress that suicide prevention requires constant attention and support.
Local services in Fairfax County include workshops, awareness campaigns, and evidence-based trainings on suicide prevention and mental health for all residents. The Suicide Prevention Alliance of Northern Virginia (SPAN) offers information and opportunities to share resources aimed at preventing suicide.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has identified several warning signs for suicidal behavior, including talking about being a burden to others, giving away belongings, searching for ways to die, expressing feelings of hopelessness or unbearable pain, increased substance use, reckless behavior, changes in sleep patterns, withdrawal or isolation, speaking about wanting to die or seeking revenge, rage, and extreme mood swings.
Risk factors outlined by the National Alliance on Mental Illness include family history of suicide, substance use—which can intensify suicidal thoughts—intoxication (with CDC data showing about one in five people who die by suicide had alcohol in their system), access to firearms, serious or chronic illness, gender differences (men are four times more likely than women to die by suicide despite more attempts by women), trauma or abuse history, prolonged stress, and recent tragedy or loss.
For those concerned about someone at risk of suicide, officials recommend using clear language such as asking directly if the person has a plan. Supportive questions like “May I help you call for assistance?” are encouraged. It is important to express concern without arguing or raising one’s voice. If possible, remove items that could be used as weapons from the environment and remain patient during the conversation.
Training programs such as Mental Health First Aid and Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) are available through the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB). The Lock and Talk Northern Virginia program—a partnership between SPAN and CSB—provides free locking medication boxes and gun safety locks.
Immediate help is available 24/7 through several resources: individuals can call or text 9-8-8 for the Suicide & Crisis Hotline; contact CSB Emergency Services at 703-573-5679; text “CONNECT” to 855-11; use Lifeline Chat at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat; or call HopeLink at 703-527-4077. In emergencies where there is an immediate threat to life, calling 911 is advised.
Residents can also visit the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board’s Emergency Services office at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health in Fairfax. Officials note that reaching out—even when uncertain—can be crucial: “Deciding when to help someone who may be at risk for suicide can be scary, but taking one step to reach out for support could save a life.”
