Mega Doctor News
Every 11 minutes someone in the United States dies by suicide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), making suicide the 11th leading cause of death in the nation.
In 2023 alone, more than 49,000 people died by suicide, per the CDC, with more than 1.5 million suicide attempts reported.
Suicide doesn’t discriminate; it can affect people of all walks of life. But certain groups, including men, older adults, veterans and LGBTQ+ youth and adults, experience a disproportionately higher risk, per the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Beyond the potential loss of life, suicide attempts can also result in serious emotional, physical and economic fallouts, including serious injuries that can have a long-term effect on their physical and mental health.
Additionally, the health and well-being of loved ones is also affected. When someone dies by suicide, their surviving family members and friends may experience prolonged grief, shock, anger and guilt, as well as mental health issues and even thoughts of suicide themselves.
Suicide is preventable, with everyone playing a role in saving lives and creating healthy and strong individuals, families and communities.
“Every person can create positive change by making suicide prevention a priority,” says Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, South Texas Health System. “By understanding the issues, recognizing the warning signs, offering encouragement and support and connecting those struggling with resources, we can all help save lives.”
So, this upcoming September as part of Suicide Prevention Month, STHS Behavioral will once again launch its Chalk the Walk: Hope & Inspiration initiative, which encourages Rio Grande Valley residents to unite in solidarity to show those struggling with mental health challenges or suicidal ideation that they are not alone.
In the lead up to the facility’s annual Chalk The Walk: Hope & Inspiration Walk, which will take place on Saturday, September 13, and throughout the month of September, STHS Behavioral is encouraging Valley residents to help spread optimism and encouragement throughout the community by crafting uplifting chalk designs and messages across the walkways in their neighborhoods, places of work and at their homes or businesses. Participation is simple; just grab some colorful chalk and get creative with messages of positivity and reassurance!
“There’s something charming and captivating about chalk art, regardless of age. It’s a low-pressure way to express creativity and spread joy and positivity, and it gives the artist and those who see their work a moment of glee,” says Castañeda “Beyond serving as a way to connect with others, brightening public spaces and bringing smiles and hope to passersby, the act of creating chalk art can be meditative and relaxing. It’s a terrific way to clear your mind and focus on the present moment, which helps promote mindfulness and reduce stress. So, it’s a win-win for the artist and those who witness their creations.”
STHS Behavioral encourages community members to share their chalk messages on social media. If they use the hashtag #STHSChalkTheWalk and tag @stxhealthsystem on Instagram, South Texas Health System will be sharingcommunity artwork on its accounts throughout the month of September.
Additionally, if you’d like to have your artwork featured at our upcoming Chalk the Walk event, you’re encouraged to submit your photos to the STHS Marketing Department via email at STHSMarketing@uhsinc.com. For any questions, please call (956) 388-2033.
And don’t miss our third annual Chalk the Walk: Hope & Inspiration Walk on Saturday, September 13, from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m., at STHS Behavioral, located at 2102 W. Trenton Rd. in Edinburg. For complete details, visit the STHS Facebook Events page.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, remember that help is available and there are resources to support you. 2-1-1 Texas can connect you with local resources. If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. For a confidential assessment, call STHS Behavioral’s hotline at 956-388-1300 any time, day or night.
