PREVENT
SUICIDE
The Suicide Prevention Alliance of Northern Virginia (SPAN) is a regional coalition of the Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax-Falls Church, Loudoun, and Prince William Community Services Boards (CSBs) and community partners, all working together to raise awareness and share resources to prevent suicide.
SPAN partners include the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, local health departments, school systems, non-profit organizations and community members across Northern Virginia. Through our network, we offer connections to information, training, and other resources to prevent suicide in our community.
WHY TALK ABOUT SUICIDE?
Because all of us have a responsibility to support the mental health of our community.
Death by suicide is a public health crisis throughout the nation, and Virginia is no exception. According to data from the CDC, 1.2 million adults attempted suicide in 2020. Certain groups are at higher risk. For example, high school students who identify as LGBTQ+, veterans, middle-aged adults, and people with disabilities.
NEWS & Events
On average, more than 1,100 Virginians die by suicide each year. To prevent suicide or self-harm, informed suicide prevention program planning is needed.
To this end, the Virginia Suicide Prevention Interagency Advisory Group (SPIAG) has prepared "SUICIDE PREVENTION ACROSS THE LIFESPAN: A 2023 PLAN FOR THE COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA"
WHAT CAN I DO?
If you’re having a mental health crisis or know someone who is, know that it’s OK to not be OK. It can be tough, but it is OK to ask for help. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 9-8-8 to reach the national Suicide Crisis Lifeline and talk with a trained counselor. The
9-8-8 lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
