Suicide Prevention: Starting the Conversation Can Save a Life
September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to bring awareness to suicide, encourage honest conversations about mental health, and remind people that no one has to face a difficult season alone.
Suicide can be an uncomfortable topic to talk about. Many people worry that bringing it up will make things worse, say the wrong thing, or somehow put the idea into someone’s head. In reality, creating a safe space for someone to talk about what they are experiencing can be an important first step toward getting support.
Suicide Prevention Starts With Connection
Sometimes, prevention begins with something as simple as noticing that someone isn't quite themselves.
A friend may stop answering messages. A family member may withdraw from activities they usually enjoy. A coworker might seem overwhelmed, hopeless, or unusually quiet. These changes don't automatically mean someone is thinking about suicide, but they can be reasons to check in.
You don't have to have the perfect words. You can simply say:
“I've noticed you've seemed different lately. How are you doing?”
“You don't seem like yourself. I'm here if you want to talk.”
“You've been dealing with a lot. How can I support you?”
“I'm glad you told me. You don't have to go through this alone.”
Sometimes, the most helpful thing we can do is listen without immediately trying to fix the situation.
Know the Warning Signs
Everyone experiences distress differently, and there isn't one specific sign that means someone is suicidal. However, some changes may indicate that a person is struggling and could benefit from additional support.
These can include:
Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or like a burden
Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities
Significant changes in mood or behavior
Giving away belongings or saying goodbye in an unusual way
Increased use of alcohol or other substances
Expressing that others would be better off without them
Talking about death or suicide
Searching for or discussing ways to die
If you notice concerning changes in someone you care about, don't be afraid to ask how they are doing.
It's Okay to Ask Directly
One of the biggest misconceptions about suicide prevention is that asking someone if they are thinking about suicide will cause them to consider it.
Asking directly can actually open the door to an honest conversation.
If you're concerned, you can ask something as simple as, “Are you thinking about suicide?”
You don't need to know exactly what to say afterward. You can listen, stay calm, and help the person connect with additional support.
If someone tells you they are thinking about suicide, take them seriously. Stay with them, help reduce access to anything they could use to hurt themselves, and connect them with immediate professional or crisis support.
Prevention Isn't Just About Crisis
Suicide prevention isn't only about what happens during a crisis. It is also about creating communities where people feel seen, supported, and comfortable asking for help before they reach a breaking point.
Checking in on the people around us matters.
Making time for meaningful connection matters.
Talking openly about mental health matters.
And making counseling and other forms of support feel normal—not like a last resort—matters.
We don't always know what someone is carrying beneath the surface. A small act of kindness, a genuine conversation, or simply reminding someone that they matter can have more impact than we realize.
You Don't Have to Have It All Figured Out
If you are struggling, you don't have to wait until things become unbearable before reaching out.
Talking with a counselor can provide a safe, supportive space to work through difficult emotions, life circumstances, relationship challenges, grief, trauma, or other experiences that may feel overwhelming.
Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness. It is a way of taking care of yourself.
And if you're worried about someone else, you don't have to be their therapist or have all the answers. You can simply be someone who notices, listens, and helps connect them with support.
One conversation can open a door. One person reaching out can make a difference.
If You or Someone You Know Is in Crisis
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or may act on thoughts of suicide, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
You can also call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support.
You don't have to face a crisis alone—and you don't have to wait until things get worse to ask for help.
If you are struggling, please reach out. If you're concerned about someone, check in. Sometimes, starting the conversation is the first step toward hope.