Radio stations across Minnesota are joining together today for the second annual “Suicide Prevention on the Air” campaign, bringing a message of hope and suicide prevention to listeners during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
The statewide campaign runs from 7 to 11 a.m. and includes prerecorded public service announcements, live segments and on-air conversations. Proceeds benefit SAVE, Suicide Awareness Voices of Education, a Minnesota-based national nonprofit focused on suicide prevention.
SAVE CEO Erich Mische says the organization has spent 37 years working to raise awareness, educate the public, reduce stigma and provide support to people affected by suicide.
“At the core of what we do is helping people understand how they can prevent suicide and save lives,” Mische said.
SAVE’s work focuses on education and training, advocacy, support for suicide loss survivors and lethal means safety.
Mische says the radio campaign provides an important opportunity to reach people who may not otherwise seek out information about suicide prevention.
“This day of being able to talk about these things on radio, to have public service announcements running throughout the entire day, is a great way to raise awareness with people across Minnesota,” he said.
One of the primary resources being highlighted during the campaign is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Mische says people experiencing suicidal thoughts, or those concerned about someone else, can call, text or chat with 988 for free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Mische says last year’s campaign showed the potential impact of bringing radio stations together.
SAVE heard from people who had not previously been aware of 988 and contacted the organization after hearing about the resource. Others reached out looking for help for themselves or resources for people who had lost someone to suicide.
“The best part of this entire day is making people aware that there are resources there,” Mische said.
He says the message being delivered over the airwaves goes beyond simply providing information.
“The most important word in suicide prevention is hope,” Mische said. “Our job is to make people aware that they’re not alone, that they’re not the only ones that are struggling.”
Mische also encourages people to learn about suicide prevention before a crisis occurs, including recognizing warning signs and knowing where to turn for help.
“Rather than waiting for something to happen, take action now,” he said. “Learn what you can about suicide and how you can prevent it.”
The campaign also includes a matching-gift opportunity. Donations made to SAVE on Friday, September 11, will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Tosa Foundation, doubling the impact of contributions toward SAVE’s suicide prevention programs and resources.
Mische says even small donations can make a difference and encourages people interested in supporting the organization to visit SAVE’s website.
People who need immediate support can call, text or chat with 988. More information about SAVE, suicide prevention resources and the campaign is available at SAVE’s website.
