[LACo Public Health] – More Los Angeles County residents die by suicide than from homicides, car crashes, or unintentional drug overdoses, according to newly published data from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Along with the Department of Mental Health, Public Health encourages the public to learn more about suicide risk factors during Suicide Prevention Month.

While Los Angeles County’s rate of suicide is lower than state and national averages, there are still roughly two suicides daily. Suicide rates among males are 3.5 times higher than women, although more women than men are treated or hospitalized after a suicide attempt, according to the latest data from 2013.

“Suicide and suicide attempts continue to be a leading cause of injury and premature death in Los Angeles County.  However, it does not have to be this way,” said Jeffrey Gunzenhauser, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Interim Health Officer. “During Suicide Prevention Month, Public Health encourages everyone to take time to learn about the warning signs of suicide and what each of us can do to help someone who may be at risk.”

Information on the risk factors and warning signs for suicide, as well as preventive steps, can be found at on the Department of Mental Health website at http://bit.ly/2c3TV2I.

“Depression, trauma, grief and loss, and substance use are some of the risk factors associated with suicide,” said Carlotta Childs-Seagle, Deputy Director, Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health. “The stigma around seeking help is very real, but talking about suicide actually opens up avenues for help and support.”

Tony Kuo, MD, MSHS, Acting Director, Division of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention said, “Suicide is devastating, but it can be prevented. Free resources are available to help people in need of support.”

Suicide Prevention Resources

1. Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health – Access Center Helpline (24/7 and Bilingual)

800-854-7771

http://dmh.lacounty.gov

2. LA County 211 (24/7 and Bilingual)

2-1-1

http://211.org

3. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (24/7 and Bilingual)

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

The Department of Public Health is committed to protecting and improving the health of the nearly 10 million residents of Los Angeles County. Through a variety of programs, community partnerships and services, Public Health oversees environmental health, disease control, and community and family health. Public Health comprises nearly 4,000 employees and has an annual budget exceeding $900 million. To learn more about the LA County Department of Public Health and the work they do, visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov, and follow Public Health on social media at twitter.com/LAPublicHealth, facebook.com/LAPublicHealth, and youtube.com/LAPublicHealth.