The number of people committing suicide and the number of calls to police regarding a suicidal person are up this year from last, and
counselors and mental health professionals say the troubling economy appears to be playing a role. While statistics do not reflect the cause of suicides or suicidal tendencies, and experts can’t say for sure why the numbers are on the rise, they do know this: Local people who are calling crisis telephone hot lines and seeking treatment for stress and depression are mentioning money, unemployment and job-loss fears more and more in recent months. 1-800-784-2433 or 1-800-273-8255. Both numbers are routed to crisis call centers across the country. Calls from the Rockford area are forwarded to the Janet Wattles Mental Health Center.
Calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotlines are intended for people in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis.