Suicide Prevention Month: It’s time to talk

September is Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide affects individuals, families, and communities on a profound level. Suicide is a public health issue, but also a very personal issue that impacts so many of us.

Nationwide, more than 12 million adults seriously thought about suicide in 2021, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control). Chances are, suicide has directly impacted you or someone you know and care about. Despite the prevalence of suicidal thoughts and mental health concerns, these issues are still shrouded in stigma, preventing people from accessing the support they need. We believe that all people play a role in suicide prevention and building stronger and healthier communities. There are three steps you can take to decrease suicide risk in your community.

We must be willing to have difficult conversations. By fostering open, honest discussions about mental health and suicide, we can break down barriers and create a culture where it is okay to ask for help. Avoiding these tough conversations perpetuates the stigma that mental health concerns or thoughts of suicide are shameful or should be hidden but talking openly about these challenges normalize thoughts and experiences we all have.

Check-in with your loved ones. A simple, “How are you doing?” or “I’m concerned about you.” can open the door to an important conversation. A common misconception is that asking someone if they’re thinking about suicide will put the idea in their head or encourage them. The truth is; by asking you make it easier for someone to talk about their struggles and reduce some of the shame or guilt they may be feeling while laying the groundwork for helping them determine the next steps to keep them safe

If someone expresses thoughts of suicide, know how to connect them with support. There are many resources in our community that care, and Foundation 2 Crisis Services is a great place to start. We are available 24/7, every day of the year, at 319-362-2174 or 988 (call and text). All our services are free and confidential.

Suicide is a preventable tragedy that affects us all. As a community, we must take action to save lives and prevent the devastating impacts of suicide. It is our individual and collective responsibility to check in with those we care about, have difficult conversations, and know how to connect others to support they need. Together, we can be a trusted support when life gets tough.

Emily Blomme is CEO of Foundation 2 Crisis Services.