As law enforcement officers, we know that the loss of any life is one too many. In recent times, we have seen an increase in the incidents of suicide within our jurisdiction.

It is our goal to provide resources which will provide skilled interventions.

National Resources:

1 (800) 273-8255

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
Languages: English, Spanish
Website: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

Local Resources:

Working Together to Prevent Suicide

Service Access and Management, Inc. provides Crisis Intervention for Berks County. Anyone in Berks County, residents or visitors, can call the contact information listed and talk to someone who can help.If you have been experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, homicidal thoughts, or if you don't know what to do or who to turn to, SAM can help! Please call!

If you or someone you know needs help, call Berks County Mental Health Crisis Intervention and Emergency Services :

1-877-236-4300

Website: http://www.sam-inc.org/Services/mental-health-crisis-intervention-and-em...

Or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:

1-800-273-TALK

Vital Information:

Depression & Suicide Warning Signs

Depression & Suicide Facts

On average in the U.S., one person dies by suicide every 15 minutes
More than 35,000 people in theU.S. die by suicide each year
In 2011 and 2012, almost 80 Chester County residents died by suicide
Suicide is the second leading cause of death on college campuses
The suicide rates for men rise with age, most significantly after age 65
Depression is the leading cause of death by suicide
Depression is a treatable medical condition

Depression & Suicide Warning Signs

Sadness
Loss of interest in activities
Not eating or over-eating
Sleep problems
Unable to concentrate
Irritability
Angry outbursts
Frequent physical complaints
Missed school or work
Missed assignments
Fatigue
Low energy
Drug or alcohol abuse
Unreasonable feelings of guilt
Indecisiveness
Self-harm
Thoughts of death or suicide
Talking about death or suicide