September is Suicide Awareness month. This month is here to bring attention to a topic not talked about often enough. Many people that suffer from mental health, or are struggling with something in their life, have suicidal thoughts that can lead to them harming themselves. These thoughts, although deemed normal, should not be taken lightly and could often point to more serious issues. 

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) has found that “From 1999 through 2018 the suicide rate has increased by 35%”. The National Institute of Mental Health said “Suicide was the tenth leading cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of over 48,000 people”. However, September is not only for the people suffering, but for the families and friends who have lost someone to this disease. Families and friends are left to cope with their loss and are usually left in the dark, having a hard time opening up because of the shame.

There are many ways to help with this topic, one way is by spreading awareness. Use your social media accounts to spread informative posts and hashtags linked to suicide awareness. Sharing these posts can lead to people opening up and getting help. While suicide prevention should be addressed all year, September gives Suicide Awareness a dedicated time where everyone can come together and talk about a very difficult topic. 

Another way to help can be reaching out to your loved ones, whether it’s because you are the one who needs help, or if you want to see how another one of you’re family members or friends is doing. There are hotlines you can call or text if you are not able to talk to a family member. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (@800273TALK) offers free confidential crisis counseling 24/7, although you do not have to be in a crisis to talk to them. If you are experiencing suicidal or difficult thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). There is also a hotline you can text if you are uncomfortable talking to someone on the phone. Text NAMI to 741-741 and you will be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor.

Suicide is not a small topic, and is something that should never be taken lightly. If you notice something, say something. This doesn’t only affect the one person but affects the loved ones around them. Take care of your loved ones and show them they always have someone.