September is a time when the spotlight is shined on suicide prevention in an effort to share information and offer understanding about a crisis that reaches every community and every age group. According to the CDC, one person dies by suicide every 11 minutes, a sobering statistic that emphasizes exactly how important it is to recognize warning signs, be equipped with the knowledge to support someone in crisis, and know how to navigate a mental health concern before it turns into an emergency.
According to Dr. Charletta Dennis, Medical Director of Behavioral Health for Priority Health, Suicide Prevention Month is so important because it gives us a dedicated time to talk openly about a topic that too often stays hidden because of stigma or fear.
“The reality is that suicide affects individuals, families and entire communities, and awareness can help people recognize warning signs, feel less alone and know where to turn for help,” Dr. Dennis said. “Suicide is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. among children ages 10–14 and the third leading cause among young people ages 15–24. Mental health is health, and early support can truly save lives.”
NOTICING WHEN SOMETHING ISN’T RIGHT
Warning signs that someone is struggling can vary from person to person.
“Some common ones include talking about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, feeling like a burden or saying there is no reason to live,” Dr. Dennis explained. “You may also notice someone withdrawing from friends or family, missing work or school, sleeping or eating much more or less than usual, increasing substance use, giving away possessions or researching ways to die. Within yourself, it may feel like intense emotional pain, feeling hopeless or believing things will never get better.”
Any of these signs, Dr. Dennis stressed, should be taken seriously, especially if they are new, worsening or connected to a recent loss or stressful life event. It’s always better, she added, to ask directly and compassionately than to assume someone is OK.
ACTING BEFORE THINGS ESCALATE
Dr. Dennis shared that families can make a big difference by treating mental health conversations as normal, ongoing conversations—not something reserved only for a crisis. She offered up the following tips:
- Check in regularly, ask open-ended questions and pay attention to changes in mood, sleep, appetite, relationships or daily routines.
- Create a safety plan together, including trusted contacts, coping strategies, professional supports and steps to take if symptoms get worse.
- Families should know what their health plan covers, how to find a behavioral health provider and what crisis resources are available in their community. With Priority Health, members can call the number on the back of their member ID card for confidential behavioral health support and help navigating care.
And remember: It matters how we as a society talk about suicide.
“Language matters because the way we talk about suicide can either increase shame or help someone feel safe enough to ask for help,” Dr. Dennis said. “I encourage people to avoid phrases like ‘committed suicide,’ which can sound judgmental or criminalizing, and instead say ‘died by suicide.’”
Dr. Dennis also encourages people to move away from assumptions that suicide is selfish or a sign of weakness, as those ideas are harmful and inaccurate.
“Suicide is often connected to overwhelming emotional pain, mental health conditions, substance use, trauma, isolation or other complex factors,” Dr. Dennis explained. “When we speak with compassion and accuracy, we make it easier for people to come forward before they reach a crisis point.”
SUPPORTING SOMEONE IN CRISIS
Dr. Dennis advised that the most helpful thing you can do to support an individual in crisis is to stay calm, stay present, and let the person know they are not alone.
“Ask directly, ‘Are you thinking about suicide?’ That question does not put the idea in someone’s head, but it can open the door to lifesaving support,” Dr. Dennis said. “Listen without judgment, avoid debating their feelings and do not promise secrecy if safety is a concern. If there is immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department; otherwise, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org to connect with a trained crisis counselor 24/7. If possible, stay with the person and help remove potentially harmful items.”
KNOW THAT YOU’RE NOT ALONE
Dr. Dennis offered advice for those who may be suffering at the moment or find themselves close to falling into a dangerous place with their mental health.
“First, I would want that person to know that what they are feeling is real, but it does not have to be permanent, and they do not have to carry it alone,” she said. “If you are in immediate danger or feel like you may hurt yourself, call 911, go to the nearest emergency department or call or text 988 right now. If you can, move away from anything you could use to harm yourself and reach out to one trusted person, like a friend, family member, neighbor, faith leader or provider. Say clearly, ‘I need help staying safe.’
“You do not have to explain everything perfectly; you just have to take the next safe step. Trained support is available 24/7 through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and asking for help is a sign of strength.”
Dr. Dennis emphasized that prevention ultimately starts with a connection.
“A simple check-in, a willingness to listen or the courage to ask a direct question can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life,” she said. “We all have a role to play in reducing stigma and helping people feel seen and supported.
“If you are concerned about someone, trust that instinct and reach out. Early support can prevent a crisis from becoming an emergency. And, if you are the one struggling, please know there is hope, there is help and your life matters.”
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.