In crisis? Call or text 988 | Montco Mobile Crisis: (855) 634-4673 | Emergency: 911
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. This month is dedicated to providing
individuals with information about suicide and what we can do to help someone who is
struggling. Suicide prevention isn’t just about knowing the warning signs- it’s about creating
opportunities for people to ask for help when needed.
According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) suicide is the tenth
leading cause of death in the United States, and the second leading cause of death in
youth/young adults aged 15-34. Statistics show that men are four times more likely to die by
suicide than women. Additionally, firearms were the most common method of deaths by suicide
in 2024 (57%). Calls to crisis centers (988) increased by 12% from 2023 to 2024.
Studies show that there are changes to individuals’ behavior and emotions that show that they
may be contemplating suicide. Some signals that someone is struggling would include:
● Withdrawal from others (isolating)
● Expressing hopelessness or “feeling like a burden”
● Significant changes in mood or behavior (examples: an increase in risky behavior or
frequent crying spells)
● Talking about death, suicide, or “not wanting to be here”
● Giving away possessions and saying goodbye to others
It is important to note that you don’t have to be certain that someone is suicidal to check-in with
how they’re doing/feeling.
There is a common misconception that asking someone directly if they are contemplating
suicide plants the idea in their head. This is not the case. Saying directly, “Are you thinking
about suicide?” simply gives someone permission to be honest about what they’re experiencing.
A few ways to ask someone this important question could sound like:
● “I’ve noticed you’ve been struggling, how are you really doing?”
● “I’m worried about you. Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
● “If you are feeling suicidal, you don’t have to go through this alone.”
We can easily offer practical support for individuals who may contemplating suicide. Some tips
for how to facilitate a conversation for someone who is struggling include:
● Listen without judgement (this is not the time to cast harmful opinions)
● Take them seriously (time may be of the essence depending on the individual)
● Stay connected (offering someone as simply as an ear might be profound to them in that
moment)
● Encourage professional support (such as therapy or mental health treatment)
● If someone is in danger, call 911 or emergency care (or a mobile crisis unit if their county
has this)
● Encourage or facilitate outreach to 988 (the suicide and crisis lifeline)
It is important to remember that suicide prevention isn't only about emergencies. Connection,
therapy, supportive relationships, coping skills, and asking for help early can all be part of
prevention. Suicide often involves planning and intention, so by offering support even in the form
of a small conversation could be significant in helping someone avoid a crisis.
As you approach someone who is struggling, remember that you don't need to have the perfect
words. You don't need to fix someone's pain. Sometimes prevention begins with simply being
willing to notice, ask, listen, and stay connected. One conversation can remind someone that
they are not alone and that help is available.
By offering someone a vulnerable conversation you might facilitate a powerful outcome that
helps to prevent suicide.
If you or someone you know is struggling or thinking about suicide, help is available. Call or text
988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support available 24/7.
