Part 3 in a 3 part series: Suicide Awareness Month – Recognizing the Signs, Getting Help, and Saving Lives
Juliet Christensen, LMFT
September is Suicide Awareness Month, a time to confront a difficult but essential topic. Suicide touches many lives—whether through personal struggles or losing someone we love—and it’s something we need to talk about openly, without fear or stigma.
The statistics around suicide are alarming, but they also underscore the importance of awareness, intervention, and support. Let’s dive into the facts, recognize the signs, and explore what we can do to help ourselves and others when suicidal thoughts arise.
How to Help Someone Who is Suicidal
If you suspect someone you know is contemplating suicide, here’s how you can help:
- **Start the conversation**: Ask them directly, “Are you thinking about suicide?” It might feel awkward, but thisquestion can open the door for them to talk about what they’re going
- **Listen without judgment**: Let them express their feelings without interrupting or offering solutions right away. Just being there to listen can be incredibly powerful.
- **Encourage them to seek professional help**: Offer to help them find a therapist, go with them to an appointment,or call a crisis line Sometimes, just knowing someone is with them can make a huge difference.
- **Follow up**: Continue to check in with them regularly, even after the immediate crisis seems to have passed. Let them know you’re there for the long haul.
- **Stay connected**: Isolation can increase the risk of suicide, so do what you can to keep them connected to Invite them to social activities, check in with them often, and remind them that they’re not alone.
- **Know the resources**: Be familiar with local and national suicide prevention resources, so you can guide them to the help they need.
The Importance of Awareness and Education
Suicide prevention isn’t just about responding to crises—it’s also about building a society that supports mental health and well-being. This means educating ourselves and others about mental health, reducing the stigma around seeking help, and advocating for better access to mental health services.
Schools, workplaces, and communities can all play a role in suicide prevention by providing education on mentalhealth, promoting awareness, and offering support to those in need. The more we talk about suicide openly and honestly, the more we can reduce the shame and isolation that often accompany it.
Final Thoughts
Suicide Awareness Month is a time to remember those we’ve lost, support those who are struggling, and take action to prevent future tragedies. Whether you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts yourself, worried about someone you love, orsimply want to be part of the solution, there are steps you can take to make a difference.
Remember, suicide is preventable. By recognizing the signs, offering support, and seeking help when needed, we can all play a part in saving lives. And if you’re struggling, please know that help is available, and you don’t have to face this alone.
Your life matters. Your story isn’t over.
Reach out, hold on, and let others help you through the darkness.
