Suicide is one of the most serious kinds of health issues, and almost everyone is touched by it at some point. At ZocDoc, we understand the seriousness of mental health awareness, and the importance of doing our part for National Suicide Prevention Week. We’re also proud to help bring you the care of hundreds of psychiatrists and psychologists – so If you need to discuss your mental health with a professional, you can find a doctor today.

Are you in crisis? Call this toll-free number, available 24 hours a day, every day: 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You will reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a service available to anyone. You can call for yourself or for someone you care about. All calls are confidential. You can also visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

So what should you know about suicide? Here are some basic facts:

How many people commit suicide? In the US, there are about 35,000 suicides every year. That makes it the eleventh leading cause of death among Americans overall.

Who commits suicide? Suicide rates vary across age, gender and ethnic group, so there are no definite answers. But generally speaking, suicide rates are highest among the elderly (over 80 years old) and among the divorced, widowed and separated. Females attempt suicide three times more often than males, but are less likely to complete it. Males complete suicide at three times the rate of females.

Why do people commit suicide? This question has no easy answer. Suicidal behavior is extremely complicated. We do know, however, that mental illness plays a significant role – especially depression. Some studies have found that 90% of people who died of suicide had mental illness of some sort, and perhaps about 60% overall were depressed. Other risk factors include alcohol and drug abuse, a family history of suicide or violence, and physical illness. A history of previous suicide attempts is one of the strongest predictors of suicide risk.

What can we do to help prevent suicide? Learn more about it! Check out this primer from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, where you can learn how to recognize suicide warning signs, how to listen and talk with someone who is suicidal, what to do during an acute crisis, and how help someone during follow-up treatment.

And check out the International Association for Suicide Prevention for more information on September 10, which is World Suicide Prevention Day.