Since 2008, September has been known as National Suicide Prevention Month. During this month, suicide prevention awareness is promoted by mental health activists, preventive groups, survivors, allies, and community members. Although discussing suicide can be difficult and uncomfortable, doing so is necessary to spread awareness and reassure those struggling that they are not alone. Here’s how you can do your part and show your support this September for National Suicide Prevention Month!
1. Educate Yourself
Read a few articles and learn about the warning signs, risk factors, and common causes of suicide. Understanding the issue and everything surrounding it is the first step to prevention.
2. Raise Awareness
As tacky and pointless as those Instagram slides seem, I promise, they can make a difference. Repost mental health posts and put resource links on your Instagram story; you never know which of your followers might need to see them!
3. Be a Mental Health Advocate
Encourage open conversations about the importance of mental health! Ensure that you are taking care of yourself, and ask your friends how they are doing. It is crucial that everyone knows that seeking help and support is nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. The stigma around mental health NEEDS to go!
4. Share Resources
The suicide hotline is “988”. These three simple numbers can save hundreds of lives – make sure you spread the word! Additionally, find mental health resources and organizations in your community and bring awareness to them.
5. Volunteer, Donate, Attend Events
Participate in local events such as walks, seminars, or workshops to show your support for individuals in your community that might be struggling. If possible, donating to organizations that support improving mental health is always helpful and appreciated.
6. Provide a support system For those around you
It takes less than two minutes to reach out to someone and ask how they are doing. You never know what your closest friends and family members may be going through behind closed doors. Showing your care and concern for those you love can truly make all the difference!
7. Share Stories
Whether it’s a story of your own or the story of someone else, sharing it can be a beacon of hope for those who may be struggling. Your vulnerability can make someone feel heard, understood, and compelled to seek help. By talking about the issue, you are helping to eradicate the mental health stigma.
8. Practice Self-Care
Take care of your own mental health and well-being to be better equipped to support others!
9. Be Kind
Be kind to yourself and everyone around you, ALWAYS! You never know when a simple act of kindness could save a life.