This article contains data and information about suicide. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for free, confidential support at 1-800-273-8255, or text HOPELINE to 741741. 

MILWAUKEE, Wisc., (SPECTRUM NEWS)-- September is national suicide prevention month in Wisconsin and the state is focusing on helping those at risk of suicide, especially during the pandemic.

“I know Wisconsin, for example, is really enhancing our services because we know there’s extra stress and anxiety right now," says Robin Matthies of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. 

The latest data from the Wisconsin DHS shows that in 2017, Wisconsin suicide rates increased by 40 percent. Men saw a 36 percent increase, and women saw a 49 percent increase.

Wisconsin provides many resources for those in need, tailored to how they identify and their situation.

“We have the availability for that in Wisconsin and there’s plenty of different services depending on who they are, how they identify, specific to veterans, farmers, LGBTQ, youth people already struggling … when you add in the complications of a pandemic, or anything else, that causes extra stress,” says Matthies.

Suicide prevention is an effort the entire community can help with by checking on those who are facing life-altering events and knowing important signs to look out for.

“That could be a change in someone's mood, them talking about wanting to die or die by suicide…noticing if there’s more anxiety or depression. If someone who is usually upbeat seems quite down or spends more time without connecting with their social network," says Matthies.

According to Matthies, the best way to approach someone who is showing signs of having suicidal thoughts is by addressing the situation directly and with compassion. 

“Asking someone if they’re thinking about killing themselves is the best way to find out the answer, to directly ask it...," says Matthies.

Helping them connect with avenues and resources can provide lasting solutions.

If you or anyone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please reach out to one of the following:

Additionally, help for farmers can be found, here.