Need Help?
Call or text 988 for mental health support, including thoughts of suicide from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Learn more about 988 services in Kane County. Find Kane County mental health resources.
The Kane County Suicide Prevention Task Force
Suicide is a serious public health issue that affects individuals, families, and communities, but it is preventable. The Kane County Suicide Prevention Task Force works to reduce suicide by using data, promoting proven strategies, and partnering with local agencies.
Member organizations include:
About Suicide
Mental health is health. Challenges like depression, anxiety, or substance use can increase risk, especially when left untreated—but with support, recovery and hope are possible.
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death among those between 10 and 24.
- The suicide rate is higher among males; however, females have more attempts compared with males.
- Suicide attempts are higher among the LGBTQ community.
- Over 49,000 people in the US died by suicide in 2023.
Warning Signs
Warning signs to look out for, especially if a behavior is new or is related to a painful event, include:
- Talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless or trapped
- Feels like they are a burden on others
- Looking for methods and making plans to commit suicide
- Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated
- Behaving recklessly
- Withdrawal or Isolation
- Displaying rage and extreme mood swings
- Giving away belongings or saying goodbye
- Having access to lethal means (such as firearms)
If You Want to Help Someone in Crisis
You don’t have to be a mental health professional to make a difference. Here’s how you can support someone who may be at risk:
Notice the signs: Changes in mood, behavior, or communication
Start the conversation: Ask directly and kindly, “Are you thinking about suicide?”
Listen without judgment: Stay calm, and offer your presence
Follow up: Let them know you care, and they’re not alone
Firearm Safety and Suicide Prevention
Access to a firearm during a moment of crisis significantly increases the risk of suicide. In fact, firearms are involved in more than 50% of suicides in the U.S. Safe firearm storage and tools like Firearm Restraining Orders (FROs) can prevent impulsive actions during a mental health crisis.
Practical safety measures include:
- Lock up firearms and ammunition separately
- Use gun safes or lockboxes
- Learn about how FROs can temporarily remove access to firearms for someone at risk of harming themselves or others
Thank you for Supporting a Loved One and Helping Build a Safer Community
Your awareness and action matter. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected Kane County where every life is valued and protected.
Visit ______ to learn how you can be part of Kane County's suicide prevention efforts. Your voice could be the lifeline someone needs.
Resources
Adolescent Suicide Postvention Resources: Navigating Towards Healing Portal
CDC: State Suicide Rates Among Adolescents and Young Adults Aged 10–24: United States,2000–2018
CDC: Suicide Prevention Resource for Action
Johns Hopkins: Teen Suicide
Preventing Youth Suicide
U.S. Teen Suicide Trends
