Holding Hope: Navigating Suicide Prevention Month Together

Written By Taylor Koretsky

In crisis? Call or text 988.

September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month, a time for all of us to turn our attention to a topic that touches so many lives, yet often remains shrouded in silence. Suicide continues to touch millions of people every year. As a mental health therapist, and as someone who has experienced the profound loss of suicide in my personal life, the complex layers of pain, confusion, and grief never get easier. My goal in sharing this is to create a space of comfort, understanding, and most importantly, hope.

Life can be incredibly challenging, and sometimes the weight of our struggles can feel unbearable. When darkness seems to close in, thought’s of ending the pain may emerge. If you are reading this and resonate with those feelings, please know you are not alone. Your feelings are valid, and there is help available.

If You’re Struggling with Suicidal Thoughts:

The first and most courageous step you can take is to reach out. Suicidal thoughts often whisper lies, telling you that no one cares, or that things will never get better. These are not truths. You deserve to be heard, to be supported, and to find a path towards healing. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There is a future for you, and it can be brighter.

  • Talk to Someone You Trust: A friend, family member, teacher, or colleague.

  • Connect with a Mental Health Professional: Therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists are trained to help you navigate these feelings and develop coping strategies.

  • Utilize Crisis Resources: These services are available 24/7 and can provide immediate support.

    • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or text 988 (in the US and Canada, in the UK call 111).

    • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

    • The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 (for LGBTQ+ youth)

    • Veterans Crisis Line: 988 then press 1, or text 838255

If You Suspect Someone is Suicidal:

It can be incredibly frightening to worry that someone you care about might be contemplating suicide. You may feel unsure of what to say or do. The most important thing is to act with compassion and take their distress seriously.

  • Ask Directly: It’s a myth that asking someone if they are suicidal will “plant the idea.” Instead, it demonstrates your care and ability to discuss challenging topics. You might say, “I’ve noticed you’ve been struggling lately, and I’m worried about you. Are you having thoughts of ending your life?”

  • Listen Without Judgement: Allow the person to express their feelings. You do not need to have all the answers; just being present and listening can be incredibly powerful.

  • Express Your Care: Let the person know how they are important to you and that you want to help them live.

  • Help Them Connect to Resources: Offer to call a crisis line with them, help them find a therapist, or accompany them to an appointment.

  • Remove Means: If possible and safe to do so, remove access to lethal means (like firearms or medications) temporarily.

  • Don’t Promote Secrecy: If someone confides in you about suicidal thoughts, you cannot promise to keep it a secret. Their safety is most important. Let them know you need to share this information with someone who can help keep them safe.

If they are in immediate danger, do not leave them alone. Call 911 (or your local emergency number) or take them to the nearest emergency room.

SAMHSA offers data, additional resources, and more information around 988 and suicide prevention. Visit their website: https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/988

Coping with Loss from Suicide:

Losing someone to suicide leaves a unique and often agonizing grief. There can be layers of shock, guilt, anger, and an unending “why.” If you are grieving a loss by suicide, know there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Be gentle with yourself and know that any emotions are understandable. This journey is not one you have to walk alone. There is immense strength in vulnerability and in reaching out for a hand to hold.

  • Allow Yourself to Feel: It’s okay to cry, to be angry, to feel numb. Experiencing these emotions and not suppressing them are more beneficial in the healing journey.

  • Seek Support: Connect with others who understand. Support groups specifically for suicide loss survivors can be immensely helpful. You may also consider individual therapy to process your grief.

  • Educate Yourself: A sudden or unexpected loss, especially by suicide, comes with many questions. Understanding the complexities of mental illness and suicide can sometimes help alleviate the feelings of guilt and confusion.

  • Remember Your Loved One: Find healthy ways to honor their memory. This could be through creating a memorial, participating for a walk in suicide prevention, or simply holding them in your heart.

  • Be Patient with Your Healing: Grief is a long and winding road. There will be good days and not so good days. Be patient and compassionate with yourself throughout the process.

A Message of Hope:

I want to leave you with this: there is always hope. Even when the world feels dark, there are glimmers of light to be found. There are people who deeply care for you, resources designed to help you, and a community ready to support you.

If you are struggling, please reach out to someone you trust. If you know someone who is struggling, please reach out to them. Let’s create a world where no one feels they have to face their darkest moments alone.

With warmth and understanding,

Taylor J. Koretsky, LMHC

Taylor Koretsky