In recognition of September being Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Governor Bill Walker and Lt. Governor Byron Mallott are calling on all Alaskans to help prevent suicide throughout the state. In an email to state employees this week, the Governor and Lt. Governor stressed the need to reduce Alaska’s high suicide rates, and highlighted some of the educational resources that are available to address suicide prevention.

 “Suicide affects every community in our state,” said Governor Walker. “By educating Alaskans on warning signs, risk factors, and how to connect people with help, we become better equipped to reduce our state’s tragically high suicide rates.”

The Governor and Lt. Governor will be sharing this message with state employees and the public during the entire month of September through public service announcements and educational materials on suicide prevention.

Wallet cards with the number for Careline, a toll-free, confidential phone line for Alaskans in crisis, will be handed out in all state departments. Careline is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year at 877-266-4357 (HELP). Alaskans may also access Careline by texting 839863 from 3-11 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. A Careline app is available for both iPhone and Android systems.

Governor Walker and Lt. Governor Mallott also encourage Alaskans who are worried about a loved one to ASK:

• Ask: Are you thinking of ending your life?
• Share that you care.
• Keep the person company and call Careline together: 877-266-4357 (HELP).

“We all have a role in helping to prevent suicide,” said Lt. Governor Mallott. “It’s important to know that asking someone if he or she is feeling hopeless and tired of being alive will not create or increase suicidal thoughts. Being brave enough to start a difficult conversation can be the first step towards healing.”

Alaska’s suicide rates are among the highest rates in the nation. Ninety percent of suicide deaths are linked to treatable conditions like depression or substance abuse. In-person and online classes on mental health and suicide prevention are available at CarelineAlaska.com.[xyz-ihs snippet=”Adsense-responsive”]

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