Why Suicide Prevention Month Matters

When we hear statistics, it’s easy to forget that each number represents a real person a friend, a neighbor, a loved one. The World Health Organization reports that more than 700,000 people die by suicide each year. Behind each number is a story of pain, but also a story that could have been met with compassion, connection, and support.

Suicide Prevention Month gives us an opportunity to:

Raise awareness about warning signs and risk factors
Encourage open conversations about mental health
Promote resources for crisis support
Remind survivors of loss and attempt survivors that healing is possible

Recognizing the Signs

While not always visible, there are common signs that someone may be struggling with thoughts of suicide. These can include:

Talking about wanting to die or giving away possessions
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden
Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities
Showing sudden mood changes, from despair to calmness

If you notice these signs, don’t wait. A simple conversation such as, “I’ve noticed you don’t seem yourself, and I’m worried about you,” can open a door. Listening without judgment can make all the difference.

How You Can Help

Reach Out: Asking directly if someone is thinking about suicide won’t “put the idea in their head” — but it could save a life.
Listen: Sometimes the most powerful intervention is simply being present and hearing someone’s story.
Encourage Professional Help: Guide them toward counselors, doctors, or crisis lines.
Follow Up: Stay connected through a text, call, or check-in later.

Resources You Can Share

If you or someone you love is struggling, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Here are places you can turn right now:

In the U.S.: Dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Text HOME to 741741 to connect with the Crisis Text Line
For international support, visit findahelpline.com

Breaking the Stigma

Talking about suicide is never easy, but silence can be more dangerous. This month reminds us that mental health conversations belong in workplaces, schools, homes, and communities. By breaking down stigma, we create spaces where people feel safe asking for help before it’s too late.

A Message of Hope

Suicide is preventable. Each of us has the power to extend hope through compassion, connection, and action. Whether you are someone who struggles, someone supporting a loved one, or someone grieving a loss you are not alone. This Suicide Prevention Month, let’s recommit to kindness, awareness, and courage in speaking up. Hope is real. Help is real. Healing is possible. If you or someone you know is struggling, you don’t have to face it alone. Contact En Touch Counseling today together, we can break the silence and walk toward healing.

Breaking the Silence this Suicide Prevention Month