ST. BERNARD PARISH, La. — Since January, 11 people in St. Bernard Parish have taken their own lives. That’s seven more than last year.
“It is concerning. It’s an uptick,” St. Bernard Parish Coroner Greg Fernandez said.
The increase is staggering, but Fernandez says the tragedies don’t have a common denominator.
The trend doesn’t seem to be widespread. According to data provided to WWL Louisiana by NOPD, suicides are actually down in Orleans Parish.
“Unfortunately, I don't have anything too specific other than the general risk factors for these folks,” Fernandez said.
With the holidays just around the corner, Fernandez says the time to ask for help and to help others is now.
“With our small community, I would say the big thing would be friends and family support them, just to be available to them, just as an emotional support, as a friend,” Fernandez said.
For some, the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, but for others, it’s the most lonely.
“The number one thing that helps anyone get through anything is social support," Ellie Mental Health Clinic Director Erin Stevens said. "Having a community, but then when we have the holidays," she said. “What happens if your community or your social support is maybe certain people or family members who you only see that time of year, and they cause you stress?”
If you know someone who is struggling, what can you do to help? Stevens says a small gesture can make a big difference.
“It can be as easy as a call or a text, or it could be grabbing a coffee or inviting them over for the holidays,” she said.
If you or anyone you know is struggling, Stevens says it’s always the right time to ask for help.
“I don’t think there is a too early or a too late time,” she said.
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