September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to talk openly about a subject that is often avoided, share resources, and learn how to support people who may be struggling. This guide covers risk factors, warning signs, how to help someone in crisis, and where to find support. It is for general education and is not medical advice.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911 if there is immediate danger.
Why Suicide Prevention Matters
According to the CDC and NIMH, suicide rates in the United States rose by about 35% between 1999 and 2018, and more than 48,000 lives were lost to suicide in 2018 alone. Thoughts of giving up and suicide can be frightening, but having open and honest conversations about them is an important start. These thoughts should always be taken seriously.
Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone at any age. Knowing when you or a loved one may be at risk, and how to respond to a mental health crisis, are important steps toward prevention.
Risk Factors
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 46% of people who die by suicide have a diagnosed mental health condition, and 90% have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Getting treatment from a licensed professional matters. In addition to mental health conditions, the following may put a person at higher risk:
- A family history of suicide
- Alcohol and drug use
- Access to firearms
- Serious or chronic medical illness
- History of trauma or abuse
- Prolonged stress
- Recent tragedy or loss
Warning Signs to Watch For
Noticing changes in behavior, in yourself or in the people around you, can help identify a crisis early. Warning signs can include:
- Talking about death or suicide
- Feelings of hopelessness or of being a burden to others
- Withdrawing from friends, family, and community
- Saying goodbye or giving away possessions
- Dramatic mood swings
- Increased alcohol or drug use
- Aggressive, impulsive, or reckless behavior
- Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed
How to Help Someone in Crisis
A mental health emergency should be addressed quickly, with compassion and patience. Any attempt or threat of suicide should be taken seriously. If someone you love is in crisis:
- Call or text 988, or call 911 if there is immediate danger
- Do not leave them alone
- Separate them from anything they may use to hurt themselves, such as firearms, knives, or stockpiled pills
- Ask directly about their suicidal feelings and be open to the conversation
- Listen patiently and never discount their feelings
- Stay calm, and do not argue, threaten, or raise your voice
- Encourage professional help, and offer to help them find it
Support and Resources
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline connects people in a mental health crisis with trained counselors. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7, 365 days a year.
- Phone or text: 988
- Website: 988lifeline.org
- Veterans Crisis Line: dial 988, then press 1
Therapists, psychiatrists, and other medical professionals are trained to provide care and support for people living with mental health conditions. Family, friends, and faith leaders can also be a source of support. Open conversations can ease feelings of isolation, and as these conversations become more common, the stigma of reaching out for help continues to fade.
Suicidal Thoughts Can Be Treated
Suicidal thoughts are a symptom, and with the right care they can improve over time. If you or a loved one have experienced suicidal thoughts, seek help right away. You are not alone. At Embracing Life Wellness Center, our team provides compassionate psychiatric care at our Florida offices in Tampa, Riverview, and Miami. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
