Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, and fluctuates between the second and third leading cause of deaths among adolescents in Illinois, but Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck says that suicide is a preventable public health threat, and that greater understanding and assistance for those in crisis is needed.

September 8-14 marks the 39th annual National Suicide Prevention Week, and Wednesday, September 10th, is World Suicide Prevention Day. In Illinois, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death overall, and the estimated cost of suicide and medically treated youth suicide attempts in Illinois is $539 million. If you or someone you know are having thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or visit the “It Only Takes One” website at http://www.itonlytakesone.org/ for more information.