[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 161 (Thursday, September 17, 2020)]
[House]
[Page H4537]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    NATIONAL SUICIDE AWARENESS MONTH

  (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
September as National Suicide Prevention Month.
  Every year, close to 800,000 people die by suicide, leaving their 
family and friends to navigate the tragedy of loss. This is one death 
every 40 seconds.
  Studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that 
suicide rates are rising, and suicide is the 10th leading cause of 
death in the U.S. for all ages.
  This important month is a time to share resources and stories in an 
effort to shed light on this stigmatized topic. It is beneficial to 
learn and pay attention to the warning signs of suicide and 
periodically check in with friends and family members, especially 
during these challenging times.
  Additionally, talking about suicide in an open and caring way can 
help those who are having suicidal thoughts. As the isolating effects 
of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to grip our world, it is imperative 
we take our physical and mental health seriously.
  I encourage everyone to educate themselves about suicide and the 
patient-centered resources available so we can help protect those in 
our communities, friends, and loved ones.

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