Suicide Prevention Month: How You Can Make A Difference
At any given time, someone you know may be struggling with their mental health. In fact, out of the many people one might encounter each day, the chances are high that some of them are fighting a silent battle of their own. You may even be having your own struggles. September is Suicide Prevention Month, a good time to have a conversation about suicide in order to raise awareness, reduce the stigma and share resources.
The Importance of Suicide Awareness
Many people are uncomfortable discussing suicide, but pretending it doesn’t exist doesn’t make it go away. As one of the leading causes of death in the United States, it’s also one of the most preventable. The more open dialogues there are regarding suicide, the more mainstream the conversation can become. Talking about it lets others know they are not alone while drawing awareness to the signs to look for, along with making sure the information is easily available when someone is ready to ask for help.
Learn The Signs
It isn’t always easy to tell when someone is struggling. Some people keep their internal pain to themselves, putting on a mask to the world to appear fine. Sometimes all you have to go off of is a feeling, an instinct that comes from being close to someone. Other times, there are more obvious signs to watch for:
- Isolating themselves
- Lack of interest or motivation
- Change in sleep and/or eating habits
- Impaired judgement
- Alcohol or drug use
- Neglecting hygiene
- Hopelessness
- Sudden mood changes
- Suicidal comments
If someone you know is showing these signs, it’s time to take action.
Steps Toward Suicide Prevention
If you notice someone in your life exhibiting concerning behavior, it’s okay to reach out – even if you’re not sure. Come to them calmly and compassionately, and with intent to truly listen. Share your concerns, and ask directly if they have had or are having thoughts about suicide. As they confide in you, resist the urge to point out the good in their life or provide counterpoints to their struggles. Instead, validate their feelings and allow them to talk as much as they need to. Then, offer to help connect them with someone who can help in a more professional capacity. Even if they choose not to discuss their problems with you, you can make sure they are aware of the resources out there should they choose to use them.
Suicide Prevention Resources
Whether you have someone close to you who is struggling or you recognize yourself in the warning signs above, please know that there are several paths toward receiving help. Contacting a mental health professional like those at Peak Psychological Services is a great step to take, but there are additional resources available at both a national and local level who can point you in the right direction in the time of a crisis.
- Peak Psychological Services: A team of experienced therapists that provide a variety of evidence-based treatments geared toward your specific mental health needs.
- SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration): An agency within the United States Department of Health and Human Services that provides information on services and treatments for both mental health and substance abuse issues.
- Pike’s Peak Suicide Prevention Partnership: Provides resources in the Pikes Peak region, including direct support, outreach, education, workshops, support groups and community programs aimed at preventing suicide.
- 988 Lifeline: Available throughout the United States, the 988 lifeline gives direct access to trained counselors 24/7 by simply calling or texting 988.
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Available for those struggling with mental health and their loved ones, NAMI offers education, advocacy and peer support.
If you are concerned someone is an immediate danger to themselves, you can drive them to the nearest emergency room or call 911 and ask for mental health support.
Raise Awareness By Getting Involved
Raising awareness comes in a variety of ways, from simply having a conversation to participating in fundraising and awareness events. We’re proud to have a team participating in the Race Against Suicide to benefit Pike’s Peak Suicide Prevention Partnership on September 21, 2025. This event – and others like it – raise money to fund community training, education for schools, counseling services, peer groups and more.
Take A Stand Against Suicide
Mental health and suicide risk are important topics and often require professional intervention. However, you don’t have to be a mental health expert to make a true difference. Something as simple as checking in on someone you’re worried about can start them on a path toward recovery. By educating yourself on the warning signs, you can know what to watch for and when to act. Listen without judgement, provide encouragement and share resources as needed.
Awareness is key, but real change comes from connection, compassion and communication. As the conversation surrounding suicide becomes louder, the hope is that the stigma of shame is replaced with one of strength, empowering more people to seek out the help they need.
For those struggling with mental health, Peak Psychological Services is here to help. Schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation to find out if we’re right for you. If you or someone in your life is currently in crisis, please call or text 988 immediately. You matter, and you are not alone.
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