Carol Zuniga, MS, LLP, CEO of Hegira Health, Inc.
September 2023
Suicide knows no specific group.
It is complex and is rarely caused by a single factor or event. There is no socio-economic, racial, or geographical boundary. It always leaves behind emotionally tormented survivors. As a modern society we have been addressing suicide and how to prevent it for decades. September is the month in which the world promotes suicide awareness, a time in which we come together to comfort the survivors, open conversations to mute the stigma around these heartbreaking losses and raise awareness to prevent future deaths by suicide.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with mental health or substance use issues contact Hegira Health call 734-458-4601 or visit www.hegirahealth.org.
Michigan’s suicide rate declined by 7% in 2020, with the greatest improvement seen in adolescents and young adults according to the 2022 Michigan Suicide Prevention Commission Annual Report. These improvements unfortunately were not sustained with the onset of COVID-19. The CDC recently reported a 5% increase in 2021, and another increase of 2.6% in 2022.
We want to hear from you
Do you have questions about mental health or substance use or would like to see a particular topic covered in the monthly Hegira Health column?
Send us an email at askhegira@hegirahealth.org.
About the author
Carol Zuniga, MS, LLP, CEO of Hegira Health, Inc. is a licensed psychologist with more than 30 years’ experience in the healthcare industry. Hegira Health, Inc., is a leading provider of behavioral healthcare services with clinic locations in Western Wayne and the Downriver communities. Visit www.hegirahealth.org.