Manchester Considers Posting Suicide Prevention Signs on Bridges

Every year hundreds of Americans end their lives by jumping off bridges. Now, Manchester, NH, is taking a proactive step towards suicide prevention with a new initiative to display get help signs on five of the city's bridges. This plan aims to address the growing concern of suicide rates by placing these signs along Queen City Avenue, Granite Street, Bridge Street, South Willow Street, and Amoskeag Street..

The Manchester Health Department reported a suicide rate of 18.5 per 100,000 residents from 2018 to 2022, with a target to reduce this rate to 12.8. Additionally, alarming statistics from 2021 reveal that one in four high school students in the greater Manchester region have seriously considered suicide.

In response to these concerning figures, strategically placed signs in high-traffic areas can be a lifeline for those in distress. These signs would provide immediate access to helpline numbers, crisis counseling services, and other essential resources. The Manchester Health Department is advocating for the installation of signs. SolutionHealth and Elliot Health System have committed to funding the project. Signs can offer help with national and local crisis numbers.

If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, know that help is available by calling the 24/7 suicide and crisis hotline at 988.