September is Suicide Prevention Month. National Suicide Prevention Month was originally organized in 2008 and has continued to live on since. It is known as a month to honor those who have lost their lives to suicide and to acknowledge those who are currently suffering from suicidal ideation.

As of September of 2024, there has already been 700,000 suicides, according to Worldometers. The suicide rates increase drastically each year; society needs to start seeing the warning signs to prevent more suicide.

Many do not know the warning sides of suicide, which is why so many suicides are unexpected. Peoples loved ones may not know entirely what battles are being fought within a person, such as suicidal thoughts. To recognize these behaviors, more of society should be educated on the warning signs, this could save a loved one’s life.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), suicide warning signs include but are not limited to: talking about suicide, guilt, or being a burden; feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, extreme sadness, irritation, or intense anxiety; change in behavior such as isolation from friends, putting themselves in danger, extreme mood swings, eating/sleeping less, or an increased use of substances. If a loved one displays any of these symptoms, seek help for them immediately. Not only are the warning signs incredibly important for suicide prevention, there are also many available resources to help those struggling.

Available resources include, but are not limited to: 988 national hotline, seven strategies, local mental facilities, and annual publications. The seven strategies include approach, environment, substance use, access, coping, support, and prevention. The general takeaway from this strategy is to create a safe environment for those struggling by stabilizing housing, disposing of harmful objects, and learning coping mechanisms. Incorporating these resources into your life will help anyone struggling mentally.