September is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on a topic that too often remains in the shadows. Suicide is a devastating act, one that not only ends a life but leaves lasting pain in its wake. The numbers are alarming: according to the World Health Organization, **nearly 800,000 people die by suicide every year**, which means one life is lost every 40 seconds. In the United States alone, **suicide is the 10th leading cause of death**, and for individuals aged 15 to 24, it's the second leading cause. These statistics highlight the urgency of suicide prevention and the importance of understanding the warning signs, reaching out, and fostering open conversations.
Understanding the Warning Signs
One of the most important aspects of preventing suicide is recognizing the warning signs. Often, those struggling with suicidal thoughts may not openly talk about their feelings, making it critical for friends, family, and communities to be vigilant. Common warning signs include:
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities once enjoyed
- Dramatic mood swings or sudden personality changes
- Expressing feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or being a burden to others
- Talking about death, suicide, or self-harm
- Engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviors
It is important to remember that not everyone will show obvious signs, so maintaining a culture of kindness, openness, and non-judgment is crucial. We may not always know what someone is going through, which is why extending kindness and checking in on loved ones can make a significant difference.
Express Kindness and Reach Out
Being kind costs nothing but can mean everything. Reaching out to someone who seems off, withdrawn, or struggling can be the lifeline they need. Sometimes, the person who is hurting the most may not have the strength to ask for help or may believe they are not worthy of it. A simple text, phone call, or in-person conversation asking, "How are you really doing?" can open the door to a conversation that saves a life.
If someone shares that they are struggling, **listen** without judgment. Sometimes, all a person needs is to feel heard and validated. Encouraging them to seek professional help, whether through therapy, a counselor, or a hotline, can be an important next step. Let them know they are not a burden and that their life matters.
You Are Not Alone
If you are reading this and are personally struggling, I want you to know: **you are not alone**. More people than you realize battle suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives, but these feelings are **temporary**. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. The pain you feel right now may seem unbearable, but it is not insurmountable. There is help available, and things can get better. Please reach out to someone you trust or contact one of the many resources dedicated to helping people in crisis.
Creating a Support System
Whether you are struggling or supporting someone who is, building a strong support system is key. Surround yourself with people who care, who will listen, and who will be there through both the highs and lows. Support doesn't have to be a big, dramatic gesture—it can be the quiet consistency of someone checking in, sitting beside you in silence, or helping you seek professional guidance.
No one should have to face this battle alone. By creating a supportive environment for your friends, family, and community, you can help make sure no one feels like they have to navigate their darkest days without help.
Resources for Those Struggling
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, **reach out immediately**. Here are some resources that can provide immediate help:
- **National Suicide Prevention Lifeline**: Call or text 988
- **Crisis Text Line**: Text "HELLO" to 741741
- **The Trevor Project**: For LGBTQ+ youth in crisis, call 1-866-488-7386 or text "START" to 678678
- **Veterans Crisis Line**: Call 988 and press 1, or text 838255
These resources are available 24/7 and offer compassionate, confidential support.
Every life is valuable, including yours. If you are struggling, please remember that there is hope and help available. Reach out, take that first step toward healing, and know that things can—and will—get better. For those who are supporting loved ones, keep showing up, keep being kind, and keep the lines of communication open. Together, we can make a difference.
For this year, Bear's Meadow is hosting a 25% off sale on our Suicide Prevention and Awareness Collection as well as donating a portion of the proceeds from this specific collection to the Aubreigh Wyatt Foundation. This sale will continue until 09/30/2024 and our donation will be made the following day.
If you would like to check out the collection, click below.
