Suicide Prevention Awareness: You Are Not Alone

Originally posted in 2022 by Mind Meld Psychotherapy (MMP) | Updated and reposted by OSO Wellness

⚠️ Content Warning: This post contains information about suicide, suicidal ideation, and mental health struggles. These topics can be emotionally triggering for some readers. Please prioritize your well-being—step away or return to this post when you feel safe. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.

Each September, during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we take a collective moment to shed light on a subject that deeply impacts individuals, families, and communities across the nation. This month is not only about awareness—it’s about breaking stigma, encouraging conversation, and saving lives.

Suicide is a leading public health concern. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2020. That same year, the organization SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) reported that 45,979 Americans died by suicide, and on average, 125 people die by suicide every day. These numbers are not just statistics—they represent real people, real families, and real pain.

The effects of the pandemic, including isolation, economic uncertainty, and grief, have intensified emotional distress for many. Now more than ever, mental health support and suicide prevention education are critical.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Knowing how to identify the warning signs of suicidal ideation can make all the difference. Here are some of the most common verbal and behavioral indicators:

Verbal Indicators:

• “I wish I were dead.”

• “I can’t take this anymore.”

• “Everyone would be better off without me.”

Behavioral/Mood Indicators:

• Withdrawing from friends, family, and activities

• Neglecting personal hygiene or daily responsibilities

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs

• Sudden drop in school or work performance

• Giving away personal belongings

• Expressing hopelessness or feeling like a burden

How to Offer Support

If someone you care about is showing signs of distress or directly expressing suicidal thoughts, your response can be life-saving. Here are ways to offer support with compassion and care:

• “I’m here for you, and I want to help.”

• “Would you feel comfortable talking with me about what’s been going on?”

• “You’re not alone in this—let’s find someone together who can help.”

• “I care about you, and your life matters.”

Try to remain calm, listen nonjudgmentally, and avoid minimizing their feelings. It’s important to take every statement seriously.

According to Julie Goldstein Grumet, Vice President of Suicide Prevention Strategy and Director of the Zero Suicide Institute, you can also ask direct questions to help assess risk:

“Try to get as many details as you can to determine if they truly have a plan,” she told CNBC. Knowing if someone has access to means, a set time, or a method can help you gauge the urgency of the situation.

You Are Not Alone

If you or someone you love is experiencing thoughts of suicide, there is hope, and there is help. You do not have to go through this alone.

Immediate Resources:

• Call or text 988 – the 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

• Reach out to a licensed mental health provider

• Speak with your primary care physician

• Contact OSO Wellness – we are here to support you or a loved one with compassionate care and professional guidance

At OSO Wellness, we honor the courage it takes to talk about suicide. This conversation may be difficult, but silence can be even more dangerous. Whether you're struggling yourself, supporting someone you love, or simply want to be informed—your voice and your presence matter.

Please remember:💛 You are not alone.💛 You are loved.💛 Your life matters.

📌 Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional mental health care. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.