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September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to bring greater attention to mental health, recognize the impact suicide has on families and communities and remind you that support is available. Suicide remains a significant public health concern in the United States, with 48,824 people having taken their lives in 2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). During that same year, an estimated 14.3 million adults seriously considered suicide. These numbers are an important reminder that someone can be struggling even when you cannot see what they are going through.

Risk can be influenced by a combination of mental health concerns, stressful life events, physical health problems, substance use, relationship difficulties, financial challenges and other circumstances. Warning signs may include talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, like a burden or having no reason to live. You may also notice someone withdrawing from others, giving away important belongings, experiencing extreme mood swings, increasing their use of alcohol or drugs or showing significant changes in eating or sleeping habits. A sudden or noticeable change in someone's usual behavior deserves attention, especially when several warning signs appear together.

It can be difficult to know what to say when you are concerned about someone. You may even worry that bringing up suicide will make the situation worse. However, asking directly whether someone is thinking about suicide can create an opportunity for an honest and important conversation. Listening without judgment, taking their concerns seriously, staying connected and helping them reach appropriate professional support can all make a meaningful difference.

You do not need to have all the answers to be supportive. Sometimes one of the most meaningful things you can do is simply ask, “How are you really doing?” and be ready to listen to the answer. If someone tells you they intend to end their life, do not leave them alone. Seek immediate help and connect them with emergency or crisis support.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or concern about someone they know. You can call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. If there is an immediate life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is about more than recognizing statistics. It is an opportunity to pay closer attention to the people around you, learn the warning signs, share trustworthy resources and help make conversations about mental health feel less difficult. Consider checking in with someone you have not heard from lately, making time to listen when a friend says they are having a difficult time, or learning more about mental health resources available in your community.

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external iconApril is National Minority Health Month! Together, we can encourage communities to stay up to date on #COVID19 vaccines. #BoostYourCommunity by sharing your knowledge, tools, & resources throughout the month. www.minorityhealth.hhs.gov/nmhm/