Suicide Prevention Month 2025: Together in Strength, Dignity, Hope, and Purpose
Every September, we come together to recognize Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, spread hope, and take action on one of the most pressing mental health challenges of our time.
In 2023, suicide was still among the leading causes of death in the United States, taking more than 49,000 lives (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2024). Behind each number is a family, a circle of friends, and a story of both loss and resilience. For me, suicide prevention is not just professional, it’s deeply personal. Years ago, I lost my best friend to suicide, and that experience has guided my life’s work as a therapist, teacher, and advocate.
Suicide Prevention Matters
Suicide is complex. It can be influenced by mental health conditions, biology, social systems, trauma, and life stressors. But there is one truth we must hold on to: suicide is preventable. With compassion, access to care, and supportive communities, lives can be saved (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2023).
The conversation around suicide prevention continues to evolve, emphasizing:
Expanding access to support through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and community mental health programs.
Building protective environments in schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods.
Reducing stigma so people can speak openly about suicidal thoughts without fear of shame.
Uplifting the voices of those with lived experience, who bring powerful wisdom and hope.
How You Can Make a Difference
At Well Mind Body, we believe prevention starts with small, intentional actions. Here are a few meaningful ways you can help:
Start the conversation. Asking someone how they’re truly doing and listening without judgment can bring relief. Research shows that talking about suicide does not “plant the idea”; instead, it reduces distress and increases connection (Dazzi et al., 2021).
Know the warning signs. Withdrawal, hopelessness, mood changes, or statements like “I can’t go on” may indicate someone is at risk.
Support youth resilience. Programs that build coping skills in schools and homes are powerful buffers against future crises (Whitney & Peterson, 2023).
Foster connection. Loneliness is a major risk factor. Checking in on a friend, sharing a meal, or joining a support group can be life-giving.
Advocate for change. Support policies that increase access to mental health care and funding for prevention initiatives.
Immediate Resources
If you or someone you love is struggling, please know that help is available 24/7:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth): Call 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678-678, or chat at thetrevorproject.org
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1, or text 838255
Please remember that you are not alone. Healing is possible. Sometimes, it begins with just one conversation.
This September, let’s commit to building a culture where every person feels seen, valued, and supported. Together, we can create communities rooted in dignity, hope, and purpose.
At Well Mind Body, we are here to walk with you. Whether you are supporting a loved one or struggling yourself, we invite you to reach out and book a session with us. Together, we can move toward healing, resilience, and hope.
If you would like to book an appointment with our of our therapists, please click here.
Thanks for being here.
Dr. E
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Suicide data and statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/data
Dazzi, T., Gribble, R., Wessely, S., & Fear, N. T. (2021). Does asking about suicide and related behaviours induce suicidal ideation? What is the evidence? Psychological Medicine, 51(3), 403–410. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291719001994
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023). Suicide prevention: Evidence-based practices and programs. https://www.samhsa.gov/suicide-prevention
Whitney, S. D., & Peterson, R. L. (2023). Building resilience in youth: School-based approaches to suicide prevention. Journal of School Mental Health, 15(2), 101–114. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12310-022-09567-8
