GREAT FALLS — September marks National Suicide Prevention Month and for decades Montana has ranked among the highest in suicide rates, ranking third in the nation in 2020.
The Montana Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) cites lack of behavioral health services, cultural stigma, and higher access to firearms as contributing factors to Montana’s high rates of suicide. Statistics show 90% of all firearm deaths in Montana are suicides.
After a suicide attempt as a teenager left Michael Woods paralyzed, he became an advocate for suicide prevention awareness.
“I teach people that, you know, that there is hope on the next day, you know. You know…you get to the next day and reach out for help. Those struggles and those adversities -- that's not a roadblock, but a detour,” Woods said. “You're still going to get where you're going on your journey, but you're going to take a different route than you expected.”
Woods says if someone mentions suicidal thoughts the best course of action is to encourage the conversation and ask if they have a plan. If so, it’s important to limit their access to firearms, pills, and other dangers.
There are numerous resources available to anyone struggling with their mental health, the most important part is recognizing the signs and asking for help.
Click here to visit the website for the Montana chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for information and resources about suicide prevention and awareness.
Call or text is 988, and you will be connected to the 24 hour Suicide and Crisis hotline.
