Why the Conversation Around Suicide Prevention Month Matters

Every September, communities across the country recognize Suicide Prevention Month, and within it, Suicide Awareness Week. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and come together around a shared commitment: saving lives through awareness, compassion, and connection.

This year’s theme—“Start the conversation. Be the difference.”—underscores a truth many of us know intuitively but may struggle to put into practice: that reaching out and starting a conversation, even in small ways, can create ripples of hope for someone in despair.

Why suicide awareness matters

Suicide is one of the top causes of death worldwide. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), in the United States alone, nearly 50,000 people die by suicide each year. In 2023, men died by suicide 3.8 times more than women, and white males accounted for 68.13% of suicide deaths in 2023.

Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that one person dies by suicide every 40 seconds.

Behind these sobering numbers are people with families, dreams, and futures. Awareness is critical because it shines light on something often hidden in silence and stigma. The more openly we discuss suicide, the more we normalize seeking help, and the more lives we can save.

Breaking down the stigma

Despite growing awareness around mental health, stigma remains a powerful barrier. Many people fear that admitting they’re struggling will make them appear weak, burdensome, or misunderstood. One such case is that of Kelly Catlin, an Olympic cyclist and graduate student in computational mathematics at Stanford, who died by suicide in 2019. Catlin was set to appear in the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics, where she was favored to win gold. In a New York Times article, it was revealed that “Catlin told her sister, Christine, that seeking therapy meant she was weak and that she would rather suffer.”

That heartbreaking belief—that asking for help equals weakness—embodies the dangerous power of stigma. It silences people who might otherwise benefit from support, and it prevents families and communities from having the kinds of open conversations that can save lives.

This year’s theme directly confronts that silence. If Catlin had felt safer voicing her pain, or if conversations about therapy and vulnerability had been normalized in her circles, perhaps she might have seen therapy not as weakness, but as strength.

Cultural factors can add additional layers of complexity—in many communities, talking about mental health is still taboo.

Stigma feeds on secrecy. Every time someone bravely shares their struggles, or a loved one listens without judgment, we erode the shame that keeps too many from reaching out. Kelly’s story reminds us that success, talent, or outward confidence don’t shield anyone from mental health challenges. What does make a difference is connection—starting a conversation, showing acceptance, and reminding people that seeking help is a sign of resilience, not failure.

When we normalize reaching out for therapy, calling a hotline, or talking with a trusted friend, we create a culture where no one has to suffer in silence.

Recognizing the signs of suicidal ideation

Not everyone expresses emotional pain in the same way, but there are common warning signs to look for:

• Changes in sleep, appetite, or daily routines
• Talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden
• Withdrawing from friends, family, or favorite activities
• Risk-taking behaviors or increased use of alcohol and drugs
• Extreme mood swings or sudden calmness after a period of distress

Trust your gut. If something feels off, don’t dismiss it. Reaching out could be life-saving.

How to start the conversation

Asking someone if they’re thinking about suicide can feel intimidating. But research shows that direct, compassionate questions don’t put the idea into someone’s head—instead, they reduce risk by showing the person they’re not alone.

Here are a few approaches that can help:

• Begin with observation: “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed yourself lately.”
• Express care: “I’m here for you, no matter what you’re going through.”
• Check in gently: “Have things been feeling overwhelming for you?” or “Are you feeling like life is too hard right now? 

If the answer is yes, stay calm. Thank them for their honesty. Listen without judgment, and encourage them to seek professional support or call a crisis line. And if there’s immediate danger, call emergency services right away.

Being the difference in everyday life

Suicide prevention isn’t just about crisis moments. It’s about creating environments where people feel safe, supported, and valued before they reach a breaking point.

• In workplaces: Leaders can foster cultures of openness by promoting mental health resources, offering flexible support, and training managers to recognize signs of distress.
• In schools: Teachers and staff can normalize conversations around stress, resilience, and support, helping students understand it’s okay to ask for help.
• In communities: Faith groups, sports teams, and neighborhood organizations can host awareness events, share resources, and create networks of care.

When support is woven into the fabric of daily life, fewer people slip through the cracks.

Taking care of yourself as a supporter

Supporting someone in crisis can be emotionally heavy. It’s common to feel scared, drained, or unsure if you’re saying the “right” thing. Remember: you don’t have to carry this weight alone.

• Lean on your own support system, whether that’s friends, family, or a therapist.
• Set healthy boundaries. Being available doesn’t mean sacrificing your wellbeing.
• Practice self-care: rest, move your body, and engage in activities that restore you.

Remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup. When you care for yourself, you’re better equipped to care for others.

A call to action

This Suicide Awareness Month, we’re reminded that preventing suicide is not just the work of professionals—it’s the work of communities, families, and friends. Every one of us has the power to make a difference.By noticing the signs, speaking up, and encouraging people to seek help, you can be a life-saving connection.

Resources for help

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available:

• U.S.: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat at 988lifeline.org.
• Veterans: Dial 988, then press 1 to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line.
• International: Find hotlines at findahelpline.com.

These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.