About National Suicide Prevention Month
“September is National Suicide Prevention Month. All month, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness.
“National Suicide Prevention Week is the Monday through Sunday surrounding World Suicide Prevention Day. It’s a time to share resources and stories, as well as promote suicide prevention awareness.
“World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10. It’s a time to remember those affected by suicide, to raise awareness, and to focus efforts on directing treatment to those who need it most.”
In recent years, mental health has become a topic that people are more comfortable with talking about. That being said, suicide is still an uncomfortable topic for many people to discuss. September is national suicide awareness month, with a specific week and day focused on bringing awareness to suicide prevention and provide resources. The National Alliance on Mental Health Illness highlights “Together for Mental Health,” encouraging the public to raise their voices and advocate for mental health. This organization wants anyone that is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors to have a system to turn to, whether that be a number to call or text or resources to better understand mental health around suicide. Click this link to learn more facts about suicide and itsimpact on the community.
Lifeline’s #BeThe1To is a great resource for learning about what action steps we can take to help and give hope, starting with “ask.” Research has shown that asking in a caring way may provide relief to those that are experiencing suicidal thoughts. Visit the Lifeline webpage for more information and details about the next steps that include: Keep them safe, Help them stay connected, Follow up, and Learn more. Other hashtag resources included #Suicide Prevention or #Together4MH.
Know that it is okay to talk about mental health and suicide. Take this month to learn more and have honest conversations about mental health.
You can reach the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255). If you are in a crisis, you can text “NAMI” to 741741.
Resources
https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/suicide-prevention-awareness-month
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/promote-national-suicide-prevention-month/
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