You Are Not Alone: Suicide Prevention Month
Trigger warning: This post discusses suicide and crisis resources. If you are feeling unsafe, please call or text a crisis line (see resources below).
Suicide has impacted everyone on some level. Maybe you have lost someone, maybe you know someone who has struggled, or maybe you have carried those thoughts yourself. Talking about suicide can feel uncomfortable, but it is one of the most important conversations we can have.
The truth is, asking someone directly about suicide does not put the idea in their head. What it does is open the door for honesty and connection. Listening without judgment, showing up, and helping someone find support can make all the difference.
If you are worried about a loved one:
Ask gently but directly, “Are you thinking about suicide?”
Stay with them or keep in contact until help is in place.
Offer to connect them to a professional or crisis line.
Avoid minimizing or trying to “fix” things quickly.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.
If You Are Struggling
If you are carrying heavy thoughts right now, please know this: your pain is real, and you do not have to go through it alone. Reaching out for help does not make you weak. It means you are human, and you deserve support. Talking to a friend, a counselor, or calling a crisis line can be the first step toward feeling less alone.
Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org (24/7).
Crisis Text Line — Text HOME to 741741 (24/7).
SAMHSA Helpline — 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for treatment referrals.
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ youth) — Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678.
Trans Lifeline — Call 877-565-8860 in the U.S. or 877-330-6366 in Canada.
If you live outside the U.S., search “suicide hotline” in your country or visit the World Health Organization website for local resources.
Final Note
You never have to face this alone. Whether you are supporting someone else or reaching out for yourself, help is available and healing is possible. If you’re interested in counseling, I’d be glad to talk. Please reach out when you’re ready.