Suicide Prevention

Did you know September is National Suicide Prevention Month, September 4 - 10 is National Suicide Prevention Week and World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10?

Most people know at least one person who has been touched by a suicide. Suicide is a painful topic for most people –one that is all too often avoided. However, broaching the topic with friends and loved ones who struggle with suicidal thoughts could actually help rather than hurt or provoke them.

Those who struggle with suicidal thoughts may feel isolated, burdensome and hopeless. They may not share what they’re feeling with others because they fear others’ reactions. And loved ones and friends may avoid the topic in hopes of not worsening matters. Staying silent does not help.

However, to feel heard, understood, a sense of connection to those around us and supported, is what we all need, especially those with suicidal thoughts. Be courageous and willing to speak openly and honestly about the topic if you suspect a friend or loved one may struggle with thoughts of ending their life. It could make a difference and give them hope.      

If you struggle with suicidal thoughts and don’t know who to turn to or what to do, call or text 988 to connect with trained counselors in the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. Counselors will listen, try to understand the caller’s problems, provide support and connect them to resources if necessary.