You Are Not Alone: Honoring Suicide Prevention Month
Every September, we pause to recognize Suicide Prevention Month—a time to raise awareness, hold space for hard conversations, and remind one another that help is real, healing is possible, and no one has to go through it alone.
In a world that often asks us to “keep it together,” many people are silently struggling. Many of us are fighting silent battles without the knowledge of what each of us are going through. This is a time to come together to remember: none of us are alone.
And while it may feel impossible in the moment, there is hope—even in the darkest of times.
Let’s Talk About It
It's a common myth that talking about suicide causes it. However, silence and not having the space to talk about it is even more detrimental.
Stigma keeps people isolated. Shame convinces them they’re a burden. Fear tells them no one will understand.
But conversations—real, honest, compassionate ones—can open doors and help to save lives.
This month is an opportunity to break that silence. To listen without judgment. To ask the hard questions. To reach out when someone to let them know you are thinking of them.
And to believe people when they say they’re hurting and listen to their story. Their story matters and so do they. Being present to listen is all any of us are seeking during life's challenges and hurdles.
If You’re Struggling
If you’re in a place where everything feels heavy and hard to carry, please hear this:
You are not weak for feeling this way.
You are not broken.
You are not a burden.
And you most certainly are not alone.
There is no shame in struggling with your mental health. Reaching out for help is not a sign of failure—it’s a sign of strength.
Talk to someone. A therapist. A friend. A support line.
There are people—many people—who want to help you stay.
If You Love Someone Who’s Struggling
It's okay to not know exactly what to say. You don’t have to fix or change how they are feeling. You simply need to show up.
Listen with presence. Don’t rush to solve—just hold space.
Ask open questions. “How are you really doing?” or “Do you want to talk about it?”
Check in regularly. A simple “thinking of you” can be a lifeline.
Know the resources. Share crisis lines or help them connect with support.
Even small gestures—a text, a coffee, a quiet walk—can make a big difference
Be mindful of warning signs.
Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself
Expressing hopelessness or feeling like a burden
Seeking access to means (e.g., weapons, pills)
Withdrawing from others
Major mood swings or sudden calmness after depression
Increased substance use
Giving away possessions or saying goodbye
Reckless or risky behavior
Sleeping too much or too little
Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
** Note: in the growing age of technology and AI, many who are struggling may be looking for answers through these tools, however these tools DO NOT provide a direct link to resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988
Remember to ask direct questions during these times. Even about researching methods for suicide as this can open to conversation more to allow for resources to be provided.
You Matter
Whether you’re someone who’s struggling, someone who’s supporting, or someone who’s simply trying to understand—you matter.
This month and every month, let’s hold space for hope. For honesty. For each other.
If you’re in crisis, please reach out:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.): Call or text 988
Trained counselors are available 24/7. Free. Confidential.
You no longer need to be afraid to ask for support. You are not alone.
Join us in the community to walk for Suicide Prevention:
Date: Sunday October 5th, 2025
Time: Check In/Registration: 9:00 a.m.
Event begins at 10:30 a.m.
Location: Hamden Town Center Park
Address: 2761 Dixwell Avenue Hamden, CT
Join our Team: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Walk Registration