September 9, 2025
Media Contact: Dr Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.
We All Have a Role to Play in Making Suicide as Preventable as Possible
September 10 is Suicide Prevention Day
WARRENTON, Va. – Wednesday, September 10 is Suicide Prevention Day. It’s a time to raise awareness, remember those we’ve lost, and strengthen our connections. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District invites you to join us by sharing resources that can save lives. Together, we can help prevent suicide.
Suicide remains a leading cause of death in Virginia. In 2023, 1,234 Virginians lost their lives to suicide. In Rappahannock Rapidan health district in 2023 18.4 adults lost their lives by suicide.
“Suicide is preventable, and prevention starts with connection,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, MD. “I encourage everyone to learn the warning signs, share the 988 Lifeline, and reach out to friends, family, and neighbors. Together, we can save lives.”
Look for RRHD staff at community events in our health district for more information on suicide prevention.
Here are some ways to get involved during Suicide Prevention Month:
- Get familiar with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- Link up with a local American Suicide Prevention Foundation Chapter.
- Take part in an Out of the Darkness Walk or start one.
- Volunteer with the Virginia National Alliance on Mental Illness.
- Connect your college or K-12 school to the Campus Suicide Prevention Center of Virginia.
- Join the Suicide Prevention Interagency Advisory Group.
- Ask your provider or hospital system to connect with the Virginia Zero Suicide Hub.
- Contact your local mental health groups. Ask them to reach out to the VDH. They can request free training from the Suicide Systems Project on managing suicidality.
- Send Safe Messaging Guidelines to your local news organization.
- Promote dignity through connection. When people feel respected, heard, and valued, they are more likely to seek help.
Take the free Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM) training to learn about limiting access to guns, medications, and other items that could cause harm. You can also access free, custom guidelines and resources from Lock & Talk Virginia.
For more on suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention, reach out to the VDH Suicide Systems Project.
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