Every September, people across the country come together for Suicide Prevention Month—a time to speak up, share hope, and show people they’re not alone. As the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) explains, this month is all about raising awareness, spreading help, and inspiring real action around one of the most urgent issues in mental health today: suicide.

Because here’s the simple truth: asking “Are you okay?” and taking the time to really listen, without shame or silence, can save lives.

Why It Matters

  • Suicidal thoughts are more common than many people know, and they don’t define a person. They signal deep emotional pain or an urgent need for care and support.
  • Sometimes, all it takes is one caring conversation. A genuine “How are you, really?” can be the start of healing.

What You Can Do

You don’t need fancy training or a plan. Just reach out with kindness.

  • Talk openly. Silence only isolates people. NAMI urges us to start brave conversations with courage and care.
  • Know the number to call. If someone—or you—needs help right now, dial or text 988. It connects you 24/7 to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org.
  • Follow the theme. This year, NAMI is encouraging everyone: “Start a Conversation. Be the Difference.” That simple message can spark hope.

Events and Awareness During the Month

  • 988 Day: Every year, around September 8, there’s a national push to spread awareness about the Lifeline—so everyone knows help is just a call or text away.
  • World Suicide Prevention Day: This occurs on September 10, providing an opportunity to reflect, remember, and reach out—all part of the global effort to say: “You matter.”

Building a Caring Community

Suicide prevention isn’t just about crisis support—it’s about building a caring world, one conversation at a time. Whether in schools, workplaces, or online, when we talk openly about mental health, it makes it easier for people to speak up before things get worse.

Helpful Tips to Share

  • Speak up if you feel someone is pulling away or acting out of character.
  • Ask the question even if it feels awkward: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” It’s okay to ask directly – it can break the silence and open a path to help.
  • Follow up after checking in. Just asking again later, “How are you holding up?”, lets someone know they still matter.

You Are Not Alone

If you’re struggling, or feel someone around you is:

  • Call or text 988 anytime.
  • Visit 988lifeline.org to chat.
  • Reach out to NAMI for more support and connection.

This month, and every month, remember: one caring conversation can be a turning point. You can be the difference someone needs right now.