National Suicide Prevention Month
September 2024
September is National Suicide Prevention Month – a time to remember the lives lost to suicide, 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 about suicide prevention. Here’s how you can help.
Suicide Warning Signs for Youth
It's time to take action if you notice these signs in family or friends:
- Talking about or making plans for suicide.
- Expressing hopelessness about the future.
- Displaying severe/overwhelming emotional pain or distress.
- Showing worrisome changes in behavior, particularly in combination with the warning signs above, including significant:
- Withdrawal from or changing social connections/situations.
- Changes in sleep (increased or decreased).
- Anger or hostility that seems out of character or out of context.
- Recent increased agitation or irritability.
Know what to do if someone tells you that they are suicidal
- Always: Take warning signs seriously
- Breathe: So that you can remain calm
- Call: The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 988 OR 911
- Never: Never leave the child alone while waiting for help
- Provide: Coping activities while waiting for help to arrive
- Reassure: Child is going to receive the help they need
#BeThe1To
Ask
- Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide often feel a sense of relief when someone asks them about suicidal intentions in a caring way.
Be There
- Individuals feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.
Keep Them Safe
- Numerous studies indicate that removing lethal means from the environment reduces the opportunity for individuals to act upon suicidal thoughts, reduces suicide attempts and overall suicide rates.
Help Them Stay Connected
- Studies indicate that helping someone at risk of suicide to create a network of resources for support can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.
Follow Up
- Studies have also shown that supportive, ongoing contact with caring individuals may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially after they have been discharged from hospitals or care services.
Learn More
Get information, message kits, resources, and more at the official website.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988.