September is National Suicide Prevention Month

Contributed by Audra Stewart-Gordon, Community Health and Communications Coordinator

September 8-14 is National Suicide Prevention Week, part of Suicide Prevention Month

Suicide can touch anyone, anywhere, and at any time. But it is not inevitable. There is hope.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

If you are feeling alone and having thoughts of suicide—whether or not you are in crisis—or know someone who is, don’t remain silent. Talk to someone you can trust through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988 or chat the lifeline.

Suicide takes precious lives. It can affect anyone, anywhere at any time, devastating families and even entire communities. But it is not inevitable. Help prevent suicide and offer support to those in crisis by sharing and airing these resources. 

Five Ways You Can Help Someone In Crisis

Ask direct questions

Even though it's hard, ask a person directly if they’re thinking about suicide.

Listen to their answers

People with suicidal thoughts often feel alone, so be sure to let them know that you care deeply about what they have to say.

Do a safety check

If you're concerned for their well-being, try removing anything they could use to harm themselves, such as alcohol, drugs, medications, weapons, and even access to a car.

Don't keep this a secret

Let them know you’ll help come up with a plan that involves telling a professional who can utilize the many services and resources available to help.

Ensure they seek professional help

Unless you work in the mental health industry, it's important to suggest they seek additional help from other people, such as a doctor, counselor, psychologist or social worker.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: afsp.org.

For more information on how you can help in preventing suicide visit: