September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
A message from Missouri Bar President John Gunn
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
The Lawyers Living Well Special Committee has planned a month of educational content to raise awareness of this stigmatized, and often taboo, subject that affects all lawyers, and specifically Missouri lawyers.
Awareness is the first step. Please join the Lawyers Living Well Special Committee in taking this first step together. This month, we will share hope and information designed to raise awareness of suicide in the legal profession and reduce the stigma of discussing death by suicide. We will also provide resources to support lawyers in need and share how to support our colleagues in need.
Plan to join us at The Missouri Bar’s 2021 Virtual Annual Meeting to hear Chris Ritter discuss "What Lawyers Should Know About Depression and Suicide." Later this month, we will hear personal stories from lawyers who have been impacted by suicide. Please view and share these important videos with others in our profession. And we invite you to participate with the Lawyers Living Well Special Committee at the "Out of the Darkness" walk in St. Louis on Sept. 26.
Finally, to those that find themselves struggling, please know you are not alone. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and we support you.
John Gunn, 2020-21 Missouri Bar President
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a certified listener, call 1-800-273-8255.
Crisis Text Line is a texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HELLO to 741741. It is free, available 24/7, and confidential.
The Missouri Lawyers' Assistance Program is a professional, confidential counseling program for members of The Missouri Bar, immediate family members who reside with them, and law students. Through a variety of free services, MOLAP helps individuals overcome personal concerns such as substance use, depression, stress, and burnout. Learn more at MoBar.org/MOLAP or call 800-688-7859.