Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. It is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10 to 34. The highest rate of suicide occurs in people 75 years of age or older, Non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native people, LGBTQIA plus individuals, veterans and people with disabilities. Black youth ages 10-19 saw the largest increase in suicide rates, and shockingly, one study found that Black children ages 5-11 are two times as likely to die by suicide than white children.  The impact of suicide in communities makes suicide a serious public health problem. 

Every September, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month reminds us of a reality that touches millions of lives yet often remains in the shadows. Suicide is not just a statistic-it is a profound human tragedy that impacts families, friends, and entire communities. By talking about it openly and equipping ourselves with knowledge and compassion, we can help prevent unnecessary loss and build a culture of hope. 

Yes, suicide is preventable. Knowing the risk factors and recognizing the warning signs for suicide can help prevent suicide. 

Suicide is linked to mental disorders, particularly depression and alcohol use disorder, and the strongest risk factor for suicide is previous suicide attempts. 

Why Suicide Awareness Matters

Global impact: Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide, with more than 700,000lives lost each year. 

National Crisis: In the U.S, nearly 50,000 people die by suicide annually, and millions more struggle with suicidal thoughts. 

Ripple effect: For every death, countless others-family members, friends, colleagues are left grieving and wondering what they could have done differently. 

Raising awareness is about more than numbers. It’s about creating safe spaces where conversations around mental health can happen without shame or judgement. 

Warning Signs to Recognize

• Frequently talking about self-harming behavior and suicide or portraying themselves in a negative light.
• Distancing themselves emotionally from loved ones. 
• A loss of interest in activities that once brough them joy, such as playing sports, participating in hobbies, and spending time with friends.
• Unpredictable changes in eating or sleeping habits, often accompanied by neglecting personal hygiene.
• Desperate attempts to regain lost friends, such as succumbing to peer pressure to engage in unhealthy habits such as drug use, 
• A decline in school or work performance
• Buying a gun or weapon
• Asking questions associated with death and/or suicide
• Giving away prized belongings. 

Why Suicide?

Many individuals often ask themselves, “Why would someone commit suicide?” Isn’t that a selfish way to solve problems?” Can’t they just get over whatever it is they are going through?” Unfortunately, individuals who have not personally struggled with mental health disorder may have a hard time understanding why an individual would take their own life, and it may be impossible to put themselves in someone else’s shoes. It is crucial, however, to understand that regardless of the reason behind the suicidal ideation and attempts, the individual is genuinely struggling with deep rooted emotional pain that may go beyond “snapping out of it.” The individual may be ashamed to ask for help, may not have a support system to be able to receive help or may be too scared that finances could get in the way. As a family member, friend, coworker or loved one, it is imperative that we take out time to listen to individuals who are struggling and try to steer them in the right direction to receive professional help. 

How We Can All Help

Suicide prevention is not the only responsibility of mental health professionals-it’s a community effort. Here’s what each of us can do: 

• Listen without judgement: Sometimes the most powerful thing is simply being present and allowing someone to feel heard. 
• Ask Directly: It’s okay and often life saving to ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?” Contrary to myth, asking does not plant the idea. 
• Encourage connection: Help connect loved ones to mental health providers, support groups, or crisis lines. 
• Reduce stigma: Challenge the shame that prevents people from seeking help. Treat mental health like physical health. 
  
  

Hope and Healing Are Possible

Suicide prevention is ultimately about hope. People can and do recover, often going on to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. By normalizing conversations about mental health, supporting one another, and ensuring access to care, we can move forward to a future where fewer lives are lost to suicide. 

Suicide Prevent Awareness Month is not just about awareness-it’s about action. small conversations, small check-ins, and small steps can lead to life saving change. Together, we can turn silence into support and despair into hope. 

If You or Someone You know Is Struggling

• Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
• Veterans’ crisis hotline
• 911
• Send Text to 838255
• Text NAMI to 741-741
• 1-800-273 TALK (8255)
• Trans Lifeline: Call 877-565-8860
• Trevor Lifeline (1-866-488-7386) or Text “START” to 678678-Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) young people under 25.