September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Some 1,400 Arizonans die by suicide annually; it is the eighth leading cause of death in the state. And yet, we can all play a role in helping to decrease this number in our communities. Remember to WAIT:

W: Watch for signs of distress and uncharacteristic behavior, including an increase in substance use, sleep pattern changes, discussing death or suicide

A: Ask, “Are you thinking of dying by suicide?”

I: It will pass. Reassure the person you’re speaking to that suicidal thoughts are treatable and you will walk alongside them to get care.

T: Talk to others. Call the crisis line for immediate guidance on the next steps.

• Maricopa County served by Mercy Care:
  1-800-631-1314 or 602-222-9444
• Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, and Yuma Counties served by Arizona Complete Health - Complete Care Plan:
  1-866-495-6735
• Apache, Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Navajo, and Yavapai Counties served by Health Choice Arizona:
  1-877-756-4090
• Gila River and Ak-Chin Indian Communities:
  1-800-259-3449
• Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community:
  1-855-331-6432

For more crisis resources, see the AHCCCS Crisis web page.