National Suicide Prevention month

by Jennifer Cheney, HSC Community Prevention Specialist

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time for us to come together, raise awareness, and demonstrate that no one has to face their struggles alone. Let us use this month as an opportunity to engage in open conversations about mental health, to offer our support to those in need, and to work towards preventing suicides in our community.

During this month, and throughout the year, we can create hope in our families and in our community by educating ourselves about suicide prevention. Learn the warning signs and risk factors for suicide, how to support someone considering suicide, and familiarize yourself with the 988 crisis lifeline.

One of the most critical aspects of suicide prevention is breaking the stigma that surrounds mental health struggles. Many individuals who contemplate suicide feel isolated, ashamed, or misunderstood. This silence can create barriers to seeking help and support. By openly discussing mental health and encouraging compassionate conversations, we can help dismantle these barriers and create a more supportive environment.

Look out for those who are not coping well. Some warning signs may help you determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change. Warning signs of suicide include: talking about wanting to die, having feelings of guilt or shame, feeling empty, hopeless, trapped, or having no reason to live, a change in behavior such as making a plan or researching ways to die (like searching online or buying a gun), withdrawing from friends or isolating themselves, talking about being a burden to others, saying goodbye, giving away important items, or making a will, taking dangerous risks such as driving extremely fast, displaying extreme mood swings, eating or sleeping more or less, or using drugs or alcohol more often. Take time to reach out and start a conversation if you notice something is different. You don’t need to have all the answers. Empathy, compassion, genuine concern, knowledge of resources, and a desire to help can restore hope and help to save a life.

Support systems play a crucial role in suicide prevention. Building and maintaining strong, supportive relationships can provide individuals with a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation. For those struggling with suicidal thoughts, connecting with mental health resources such as 988 (the suicide and crisis lifeline), counseling services, and support groups can offer direct assistance and support.

Everyone has the capacity to make a positive impact, whether through direct intervention, supporting mental health initiatives, or simply offering a listening ear. Together, we can break the silence surrounding suicide, foster an environment of understanding, and offer hope to those in need.

Throughout the month, the Hot Springs County Prevention Coalition will be sharing resources and highlighting the roles we all play in suicide prevention. Look for ways to participate and create hope through action. They will be holding their 3rd annual Suicide Prevention Awareness Walk on Sunday, September 22 at 5 p.m. at the Kiwanis/Washakie Shelter in the State Park. Come together as a community and enjoy food, music, and connection as we learn about suicide and mental health resources, and walk together to raise awareness of suicide prevention and to remember those we’ve lost. This is a free and family friendly event. More information can be found at http://www.hotspringscountyprevention.org or on facebook at facebook.com/HotSpringsCountyPrevention.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. Help is available. There is hope.