Each day in Tennessee, an average of three people die by suicide.

In 2016 – the latest year for which state-specific figures are available – there were 1,110 recorded suicide deaths in Tennessee, a rate of 16.2 per 100,000.

Did that get your attention? Bryan Herriman, director at CHEER Mental Health hopes so.

“We’re trying to raise public awareness about suicide,” said Herriman. “Suicide is one of the most disruptive and tragic events a family and a community can experience, which is why we try to raise awareness by recognizing September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.”

As of 2016, suicide is the second-leading cause of death for young people ages 10-19 in Tennessee, with one person in this age group lost to suicide each week. We lose one person between the ages of 10-24 every four days, and every day we lose at least one person over the age of 45 – with midlife and older adults remaining at higher risk.

Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.

Suicide is never caused by a single event. It is the result of many factors over a period of time. Pressures such as unrealistic academic, professional, social or family expectations can create a strong sense of rejection and can lead to deep disappointment. Teens and young adults are especially prone to feelings of loneliness, hopelessness and rejection as a result of these pressures.

Statistics from the Tennessee Department of Health: Tennessee veterans, active-duty military personnel, and National Guardsmen face a disproportionate risk as compared to the general population of Tennessee, with more dying from suicide than combat.

The highest risk for suicide is among the survivors of those who died by suicide or those who have attempted suicide.

More people die by suicide each year than from homicide, AIDS, or drunk driving. Some 42,000 Americans die by suicide each year.

Suicide is the leading cause of violent deaths in Tennessee, as well as nationally and worldwide, far above homicide and death due to natural disasters.

Every day, 117 people die by suicide in the United States – about one every 12 minutes.

Mental health experts say never keep a person’s suicidal feelings a secret. Saving a life is more important than keeping a promise.

If you know someone who is thinking about suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. It’s available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.