Drug rehabilitation centers may help prevent suicides

More than 34,000 Americans take their own lives annually, according to the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) says that approximately 26 percent of adults in the U.S. suffer from a mental illness, such as depression. These can often be treated at rehabilitation facilities to increase the effectiveness of suicide prevention.

Groups such as the Commission on Accreditation and Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) provide resources to those suffering from illnesses and addictions that may lead to suicide. Drug rehabilitation centers can also help individuals suffering from substance abuse and depression.

Brian Boon, the president and chief executive officer (CEO) of CARF, was recently named a founding member of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention executive committee.

"CARF International is honored to support the national effort to prevent and reduce the number of deaths by suicide," Boon said.

Nearly 3.7 percent of the adult population in the U.S. has thought about ending their lives this year, according to Action Alliance. Boon emphasizes that suicide and depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, race or social class.