September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to remind our Southwest Nebraska communities that help is available and that everyone can play a role in suicide prevention.

In 2024, 297 Nebraskans died by suicide, with a statewide suicide rate of 15.1 deaths per 100,000 people. Locally, SWNPHD's Community Health Assessment found a suicide rate of 15.7 deaths per 100,000 people in Southwest Nebraska from 2016–2020.

How Can You Help?

• Check in with someone who may be struggling.
• Listen without judgment.
• Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide.
• Connect them with help.

 

Need Support?

Call or text 988 — the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

For local behavioral health resources, visit swhealth.ne.gov or call Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department at 308-345-4223.

You don't have to have all the answers. Sometimes, simply being there and starting the conversation can make a difference.

 

 

Sources: Nebraska DHHS, 2025 Nebraska Epidemiological Profile; SWNPHD Community Health Assessment, 2023.