Since then, September has been a time to acknowledge those affected by suicide, raise awareness, and connect individuals with suicidal ideation to treatment services. According to the CDC, each year more than 41,000 individuals die by suicide, leaving behind friends and family members to navigate the tragedy of their loss. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death among adults in the U.S. and the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-24 and these rates are increasing. The Virginia Department of Health has additional information on their website: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/blog/2023/09/08/anyone-can-help-prevent-suicide-learn-the-signs-during-suicide-prevention-awareness-month/#:~:text=Each%20September%2C%20Suicide%20Prevention%20Awareness,families%2C%20and%20communities%20stay%20connected.