September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

This is a good time to pause and reflect on the health and wellness of those around us, and to be aware of how someone at risk for suicide may need someone to intervene on their behalf.

Recognize the risks:

• More than 50,000 Americans died by suicide in 2023—more than in any year to date.
• People with suicidal thoughts are usually struggling with a painful life situation. As their distress worsens, they may develop “tunnel vision,” believing suicide is the only solution.
• The use of alcohol or opioid medications significantly increases suicidal risk.

Spot the signs:

• People in distress may withdraw from others, speak about death, show stark personality changes, lose interest in activities, and appear depressed.
• Listen closely to and take seriously what a troubled individual is saying. Don’t act shocked—or be critical or judgmental—if they mention ending their life.
• If any level of risk seems present, contact 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Sources: National Institutes of Health/National Library of Medicine, Healthwise