September is National Suicide Prevention Month—a time to remember the lives lost, acknowledge the millions more who have experienced suicidal thoughts, and the many individuals, families, and communities that have been impacted by suicide. It’s also a time to raise awareness and share messages of hope.
In order to bring awareness and hope, we have to end the silence that often surrounds the topic of suicide. Although extremely difficult, open and honest conversations can help individuals, families, and communities begin to understand how mental health conditions, past trauma and other experiences can lead someone to end their life. By understanding, we can better support those loved ones and encourage them to seek help.
This September, take a stand, raise awareness and bring hope! Our lives are precious, let’s protect them.
If you or someone you know is in a crisis, call, text, or chat 988 – a trained crisis counselor is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year – or text NATIVE to 741741 to reach a culturally aware crisis worker. The Crisis Text Line offers judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and more; it is confidential, free, and available 24/7.