Local Brand Spreads Hope During Suicide Prevention Month

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ)- September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, sharing resources and encouraging conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.

The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows 48,824 people died by suicide in the United States in 2024- an average of about 134 deaths every day.

While the national suicide rate decreased slightly from 2023 to 2024, it remains significantly higher than it was more than two decades ago.

Here in the Coachella Valley, one advocate is using clothing and his own personal experiences to help start conversations about suicide prevention.

The Burnt Out Collective began as a streetwear brand, but its founder says it has grown into something much bigger - a way to help people feel seen and remind those going through difficult times that their story is not over.

News Channel 3 is speaking with the founder about the experiences that inspired the brand, his message for others who may be struggling and why he believes talking openly about suicide can make a difference.

Watch the full story tonight on News Channel 3.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.