Suicide Prevention- How You Can Make A Difference 

September is National Suicide Prevention Month

When someone we care about is struggling, it can be difficult to know what to say. We may notice that a friend has been withdrawing, a family member seems overwhelmed, or a coworker doesn’t seem like themselves. We might want to reach out but worry about saying the wrong thing. 

Prevention starts with connection. Noticing signs and symptoms. Noticing changes in a person’s mood, appearance or behaviors. We can express our care for others by stating that we’ve noticed and we care. 

• “I noticed you haven’t been attending class lately and you seem sad. How are you doing?” 

• “I care about you and I’ve noticed you seem more down than usual.” 

• “You have been sleeping more and seem overwhelmed. I know you are going through a lot. I’m here for you.” 

You might invite someone for coffee, a meal or a walk to connect and talk. If you are concerned that someone is exhibiting signs of a mental health challenge and may be contemplating suicide- ask the question. 

One of the most important things we can do is also one of the simplest: ask. 

• “Are you thinking about suicide?”  

That question can feel uncomfortable. You may worry that bringing up suicide will put the idea into someone’s head or make things worse. 

Research and suicide prevention organizations tell us otherwise. Asking someone directly about suicide does not cause suicidal thoughts or behavior. In fact, asking directly can create an opportunity for someone who is struggling to talk honestly about what they are experiencing. Asking can reduce the risk of suicide because the individual can get connected with appropriate professional help. 

Sometimes, simply knowing that someone is willing to have the conversation can help a person feel less alone. 

Signs you may notice: There isn’t always an obvious sign that someone is thinking about suicide. Warning signs can include talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless or trapped, feeling like a burden, withdrawing from others, increased substance use, extreme mood changes, a recent traumatic event or changes in sleep. These signs are especially important to notice when they are new, increasing, or connected to a painful event or significant change. 

But we don’t have to be certain that someone is suicidal before we reach out. 

Being direct doesn’t mean being dramatic. It means being willing to talk about something that can be difficult to say out loud. 

What do you say if they say yes? 

You don’t need to have all the answers. 

Start by listening. 

Try to stay calm and let the person talk. Avoid judgment, arguing, or immediately trying to fix the situation. Let them know you’re glad they told you and that they don’t have to face it alone. You may want to ask if they have a plan. 

You can say: 

• “I’m really glad you told me.” 

• “You don’t have to go through this by yourself.” 

• “Let’s get some help together.” 

If someone tells you they are thinking about suicide, don’t promise to keep it a secret. Help connect them with professional support. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988, and you can contact 988 yourself if you’re concerned about someone else and aren’t sure what to do. 

If there is an immediate danger or someone has already taken action to harm themselves, call 911 or seek emergency medical help. 

You can also contact local behavioral health hospitals for an evaluation or go to the ER. 

Prevention happens in everyday moments 

Suicide prevention isn’t only about what happens during a crisis. It also happens in the everyday moments when we build relationships, create belonging, notice when someone is struggling, and make it easier to ask for help. When we can notice signs and symptoms early we can help connect people with appropriate care and reduce the risk of suicide.  

That’s one reason connection matters so much to our overall health. Feeling connected to family, friends, coworkers, and community can be an important protective factor. The CDC identifies connection and supportive relationships as part of a broader approach to suicide prevention. 

At the YMCA, we believe health is about more than physical fitness. Spiritual and Mental Health are an important part of our well-being. Mental health is brain health, and brain health is part of our overall health. It’s important to realize when someone is experiencing signs and symptoms of depression or has suicidal ideation there are physical factors. It’s not only about changing circumstances or outlook. Be careful not to minimize someone’s symptoms and instead focus on connecting the individual with professional help. Creating spaces where people feel known, supported, and connected is part of caring for the whole person. 

You don’t have to be a therapist or suicide prevention expert to make a difference. 

You can notice. 

You can listen. 

You can ask. 

And sometimes, the question you’re most afraid to ask may be the question someone needs you to ask. 

Let’s all do our part to notice, connect and ask so we can help reduce stigma and prevent suicide.