September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, and this week is Suicide Prevention Week, so Dallas County Hospital is working to emphasize the importance of emotional well-being.

The DCH Senior Life Solutions program emphasizes that talk of suicide should never be dismissed, and that they’re working to engage and educate the community on services they offer to give people the help they need. Senior Life Solutions is an intensive, outpatient group therapy program specifically designed for older adults suffering from symptoms of anxiety and depression that could lead to suicide attempts or suicidal thoughts. Program staff uses standardized, evidence-based tools for screening patients at risk of suicide, while also assisting patients with creating a plan to prevent future suicidal tendencies.

Additionally, the Iowa Department of Public Health offers an assortment of resources for people of all ages who are battling depression and suicidal thoughts. That includes a 24-hour phone hotline, and new options such as texting and online chat hotlines. There’s also a National Suicide Prevention Lifeline people can take advantage of, either by calling 1-800-273-8255 or clicking the first link below. For more information on the DCH Senior Life Solutions program, call 515-465-7580. Click the second link below to view suicide prevention resources through Iowa Public Health.

https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
https://idph.iowa.gov/substance-abuse/suicide-prevention