Time to Protect Those Who Protect Us

More than 47,000 people in the United States commit suicide annually, making it the 10th leading cause of death for all ages. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized suicide as a public health priority. National and international resources have been allocated for research, education and awareness, and to implement suicide prevention programs. Despite these efforts, the stigma around mental health remains and is particularly evident across different occupational fields. There is a disproportionate risk of suicide—and suicide completion—among the legal, medical and law enforcement professions.