(WTNH)- This week is national suicide prevention week.

Forty Five thousand Americans died by suicide in 2016 alone, which is up thirty percent from 1999. The numbers of those who consider suicide when it comes to our nation’s youth, also a startling number.

Suzi Craig from Mental Health Connecticut and Matt Riley, The COO of the Jordan Porco foundation came to Good Morning Connecticut at 9 to talk about what can be done to help.

Craig said there are warning signs to look for if someone is contemplating suicide. Those include: isolation, feeling like a burden, loss of interest in meaningful activities, mood swings, sleeping too much or too little and giving away possessions. People often fear that asking someone if they are considering suicide will “give them the idea.” In fact, the evidence shows that having a conversation may save the person’s life.

Riley said suicide is the second leading cause of death for Americans ages 15 to 24. One in ten college students and on in five high school students consider suicide. Young people considering suicide are most likely to talk to peers, so the Jordan Porco Foundation focuses on peer-to-peer outreach and awareness.  The CDC offers 5 steps to help someone at risk: 1. Ask. 2. Keep them safe. 3. Be there. 4. Help them connect. 5. Follow up.

If you believe someone close to you may be considering suicide, ask them about it. If you’re unsure of what to do, you can call 211 or the National Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255).