September Is World Suicide Prevention Month: Supporting Families and Offering Hope
By Dr. Ivy Bagley, FNP/PMHNP
Each September, we pause to recognize World Suicide Prevention Month. It’s a time to bring awareness, reduce stigma, and remind one another that hope and help are always possible. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but it is also preventable. As families, one of the most powerful things we can do is talk openly, listen with compassion, and stay connected.
This year, on September 10th, we join together for World Suicide Prevention Day—a global reminder that every life matters and every conversation can bring hope.
Why This Matters for Families
Suicide can affect anyone—children, teens, and adults alike. When families have open conversations about mental health, they create safe spaces where everyone feels seen and supported. These conversations don’t need to be perfect; they just need to start.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Some signs may be subtle, but here are things to look for in loved ones of any age:
Talking about feeling hopeless or like a burden
Withdrawing from friends, family, or favorite activities
Sudden changes in sleep, appetite, or mood
Expressing thoughts about death or self-harm—even jokingly
Giving away special belongings or saying goodbye unexpectedly
How Families Can Help
Talk Openly: Let your child or loved one know it’s okay to talk about feelings, even the hard ones.
Listen First: Instead of rushing to give advice, just listen. Feeling heard can ease the weight of loneliness.
Seek Professional Support: Counselors, primary care providers, and mental health specialists can provide guidance and treatment.
Model Healthy Coping: Show your children that it’s okay to ask for help, take breaks, and care for your mental health.
Stay Connected: Simple check-ins—a walk together, sharing a meal, or sending a kind note—remind loved ones they are valued.
A Special Note for Parents and Kids
For Parents: Children and teens may not always use the words “I’m struggling.” Watch for changes in behavior, irritability, or sudden quietness. Check in often with questions like, “How are you feeling today?” or “What’s been hard lately?” Even if they don’t answer fully, your presence matters.
For Kids and Teens: If you ever feel sad, lonely, or like things are too heavy, please know—you don’t have to carry it alone. Talking to a parent, teacher, coach, or trusted friend is brave, not a burden. Asking for help is a sign of strength.
Where to Find Help
If you or someone you know is in crisis:
In the U.S., dial or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Veterans can dial 988, then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line.
Outside the U.S., visit https://findahelpline.com for international resources.
Moving Forward Together
World Suicide Prevention Month—and especially World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10—reminds us that every life matters, every story matters, and every family can play a role in prevention. By keeping the conversation open, checking in often, and leaning on professional support when needed, we can bring light into some of the darkest moments.
This September, let’s stand together as families and communities to remind one another: you are not alone, and hope is always within reach.