World Suicide Prevention Day: Everyday Ways to Offer Hope and Prevent Suicide
September 10th marks World Suicide Prevention Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness, spreading hope, and taking action to prevent suicide.
I lost my brother GJ to suicide back in 2009. He was incredibly creative, kind, and thoughtful. Losing him was one of the most painful experiences of my life and a huge catalyst behind my mission to help others love their lives so they never want to leave them.
Suicide is a complex and difficult topic to talk about, but it’s also an incredibly important one. The truth is, suicide can impact anyone—no matter their age, gender, background, or life circumstances. And while we can’t always see it coming, there are things we can do every day to help prevent it.
One of the most important steps in suicide prevention is understanding the warning signs. These signs aren’t always obvious, but being aware of them can make a difference. Some things to look out for include:
Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities: If someone you know is pulling away from the people and things they love, it could be a sign they’re struggling.
Talking about feeling hopeless or trapped: If someone is expressing feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or being trapped, it’s important to take it seriously.
Changes in mood or behavior: Sudden mood swings, increased irritability, or a noticeable change in behavior can all be red flags.
Talking about death or suicide: This one might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. If someone is talking about wanting to die, feeling like a burden, or even joking about suicide, it’s time to step in.
5 Ways You Can Help Prevent Suicide
It can feel overwhelming to know how to help someone who might be struggling with suicidal thoughts, but there are small, everyday things we can all do to make a difference:
1.Reach Out: If you notice someone is withdrawing or seems off, don’t be afraid to reach out, or even directly ask “Have you had thoughts of self-harm lately?” Asking directly will not cause someone to be more suicidal and can open up powerful conversations that can lead them to get the help they need. Sometimes, just letting someone know you’re there for them can make all the difference. A simple “I’m here for you” is all it takes.
2. Listen Without Judgment: If someone opens up to you about their struggles, listen without trying to fix it or offer solutions right away. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is just be present and let them know they’re not alone.
3. Encourage Professional Help: If you’re concerned about someone’s safety, encourage them to seek professional help. Whether it’s a therapist, a counselor, or a crisis hotline, getting the right support can be life-saving.
4. Stay Connected: Don’t underestimate the power of staying connected. Regular check-ins, whether through text, a phone call, or in person, can help someone feel less isolated and more supported.
5. Offer Practical Support: Sometimes, people who are struggling might not have the energy or ability to take care of everyday tasks. Offering to help with something practical—like cooking a meal, running errands, or even just sitting with them—can be a huge relief.
Talking about suicide openly can save lives. We need to break the stigma surrounding mental health and create a culture where it’s okay to ask for help. No one should feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their struggles. And while we can’t always prevent every tragedy, by being there for each other with kindness and compassion, we can make a difference.
If you’re reading this and you’re struggling, please know that you’re not alone. There is help available, and there are people who care about you. You matter, your life matters, and there is hope—even if you can’t see it right now.
Please reach out to someone you trust, or call a crisis hotline if you need to talk to someone immediately.
If you are in the U.S.A:
Call or text 988 or text TALK to 741741 📲
Or reach out to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
If you are outside the U.S.A:
Reach out to the International Association for Suicide Prevention
World Suicide Prevention Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in preventing suicide. By reaching out, listening, and offering hope, we can help create a world where fewer people feel that suicide is their only option. Let’s keep the conversation going—not just today, but every day.
BTW, my mission is help people love their lives so they never want to leave them.
Every week I do my best to share things with you that are inspiring, encouraging, and beneficial.
If you like:
🧠 Simple mental health tips and inspiration
🗓️ Events you can attend with amazing people
💡Random thoughts and musings as one human to another, including things I’m learning as a therapist, digital nomad,
and person who is trying to be her best!
I have a weekly newsletter I think you might like and I would love for you to be a part of it. Just click the link below!