September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to come together to raise awareness, support one another, and remind our family, friends, and community that help is available.
Suicide prevention is something we can all be part of. A caring conversation, a check-in with someone who may be struggling, or helping someone connect with support can make a difference.
Know the Warning Signs
Someone who is thinking about suicide may show changes in their mood, behavior, or relationships. Warning signs can include:
- Talking about feeling hopeless, helpless, or like a burden
- Talking about death or suicide, or expressing a desire to die
- Withdrawing from family, friends, or activities they usually enjoy
- Giving away important belongings or saying goodbye to people
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Sudden or extreme changes in mood or behavior
- Taking unusual risks or acting recklessly
If you notice these signs, don’t ignore them. Reach out, listen without judgment, and let the person know you care.
Five Ways We Can Help Prevent Suicide
1. Strengthen social connections.
Connection matters. Make time to check in with family, friends, Elders, youth, coworkers, and others in your community. A simple “How are you doing?” can open the door to an important conversation.
2. Listen and talk openly about suicide.
Asking someone directly if they are thinking about suicide does not put the idea in their head. It can give them an opportunity to talk about what they are experiencing and get the support they need.
3. Reduce access to lethal means.
When someone is experiencing a suicidal crisis, creating distance between them and items they could use to hurt themselves can provide time for the crisis to pass. When appropriate, help make potentially dangerous items, including medications and firearms, less accessible.
4. Help people connect with support.
Encourage someone who is struggling to connect with a trusted family member, friend, counselor, health care provider, or other support person. You don’t have to have all the answers—you can help them find someone who does.
5. Seek immediate help when needed.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. You can also call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Important Dates in September
September 8 – 988 Day
988 Day helps raise awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and reminds people that crisis support is available when they need it.
September 10 – World Suicide Prevention Day
World Suicide Prevention Day brings people together around the world to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and strengthen suicide prevention efforts.
You Are Not Alone
Suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility. We can help create a community where people feel seen, heard, valued, and supported.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out. You don’t have to face it alone.
Call or text 988
Call 911 for immediate danger
Or connect with a trusted health care provider or support person.
A conversation can be the beginning of hope. Sometimes, simply being there can make all the difference.