Disclaimer: This blog discusses the topic of suicide, which may be triggering for some readers. Please take care of your mental well-being, and reach out for support if needed.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about suicide and finding ways we can all play a part in preventing it. It’s a month where we focus on mental health, look out for one another, and start honest conversations that could save lives.
Why Suicide Prevention Month Matters
Let’s be real—mental health can sometimes feel like a taboo subject, but Suicide Prevention Month exists to change that. In the U.S., suicide is one of the leading causes of death, with someone losing their life every 11 minutes. If that doesn’t shake you, consider this: in 2022, over 13.2 million adults seriously thought about suicide, 3.8 million planned a suicide attempt and 1.6 million attempted it [1]. Those are more than just statistics—they’re people, and every single one matters.
This month isn’t just about statistics, it’s an opportunity to:
- Educate yourself about suicide prevention
- Reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues
- Promote available resources and support services
- Encourage those who are struggling to seek help
Recognizing the Warning Signs
One of the most powerful tools we have in preventing suicide is knowing what to look for. It’s not about being a mind reader; it’s about paying attention. Here are some common warning signs:
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities they once loved
- Drastic mood swings or an overwhelming sense of hopelessness
- Talking about wanting to die or hurt themselves
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol
- Giving away possessions or saying goodbye to loved ones
If you notice any of these signs in someone you care about, take them seriously. It’s better to ask questions and offer support than to assume everything is okay.
Suicide Prevention Resources
If you or someone you know is in crisis, immediate help is available. Here are some crucial resources:
United States:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for 24/7 support.
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor.
Canada:
- 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988 for support available 24/7.
- Kids Help Phone (available for younger individuals): Call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868.
How You Can Help
Supporting someone who’s struggling with suicidal thoughts can feel heavy, but you don’t need to have all the answers. You just need to be present and listen. Here are some tips on how to help:
- Educate Yourself: Learn about mental health, suicide prevention, and available resources.
- Use Person-First Language: Implement person-first language when discussing mental illness to empower individuals.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date on policies and politicians that advocate for mental health.
- Get Involved: Volunteer for mental health organizations or join support groups.
- Break the Stigma: Talk openly about mental health to help destigmatize the topic
Suicide Isn’t Just an Individual Issue—It’s a Community One
We often think of mental health as a deeply personal struggle, but it’s something that affects communities, families, and entire systems. Suicide doesn’t just touch the person struggling; it ripples out, impacting everyone around them. Veterans, for example, experience suicide rates 50% higher than non-veterans [2]. Certain racial and ethnic groups also face disproportionately high suicide rates. This is why breaking the stigma and having open conversations about mental health is so critical.
Fast Facts
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10–14 and 25–34.
- In 2022, over 49,000 people died by suicide in the U.S. alone.
- Veterans are 50% more likely to die by suicide than non-veterans.
- Suicide rates are highest among non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native people and non-Hispanic White people.
Conclusion: Keep the Conversation Going
Suicide Prevention Month might only last for 30 days, but the effort to save lives doesn’t stop when October rolls around. By staying informed, looking out for one another, and being willing to have tough conversations, we can make a real impact. Remember, you don’t have to fix everything—you just need to be there.
Sometimes, showing up is all it takes to help someone feel less alone.
References
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Facts about suicide. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html
[2] Nation’s governors mark September as Suicide Awareness month. National Governors Association. (2024, September 13). https://www.nga.org/news/commentary/nations-governors-mark-september-as-suicide-awareness-month/