September is National Suicide Prevention Month, dedicates time to raise awareness about the resources available for people struggling with mental health issues and suicidal thoughts. For individuals facing such challenges, knowing there are accessible help options can be life-saving. Various states and organizations are ramping up their efforts to provide awareness and support throughout this month, highlighting the importance of reaching out for help and reminding everyone they are not alone.
One of the key initiatives this month is centered on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which has gained attention for its role as a national resource. Since its launch, the 988 hotline has seen increased engagement across the United States. With calls to 988 doubling since its inception, it has become clear more people are recognizing the importance of seeking help. For example, August 2024 recorded approximately 9,409 calls to 988 across Washington state, combined with 2,751 texts and 1,200 chats, according to the Washington Department of Public Health.
On September 19, Utah officials emphasized the significance of utilizing this resource. Brent Kelsey, director of Mental Health at the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, urged individuals to take advantage of the 988 hotline when necessary. He stressed, "It’s important to know if things get tough, you aren’t alone. You can get help for yourself or someone else by calling or texting 988. There is always someone available to help you." This message rings true for many states as they observe National Suicide Prevention Month and seek to lift the stigma surrounding mental health.
The proliferation of new resources is also changing the mental health dialogue. For example, Carol Ruddell from Live On Utah confirmed the increasing usage of the hotline highlighting the value of having dedicated mental health responders available. Ruddell noted, "There’s never a wrong time to call 988. They have the resources, they can give you the information." The hotline is not limited to individuals thinking about suicide; it is also there for people dealing with other mental health challenges.
Safety and support reach beyond just the hotline. The SafeUT app has been launched to help students, parents, and educators gain immediate access to assistance. This app allows users to reach out and receive responses within approximately 90 seconds, offering invaluable real-time support when needed. Diana Ballesteros, outreach coordinator for SafeUT, pointed out how students can engage with the app during stressful situations like exams or other challenges, illustrating the app's versatility.
A driving force behind these awareness campaigns is the hope to save lives. Organizations like BarkleyOKRP are utilizing creative advertising avenues to shine light on the issue. Their campaign, “Get The Words Out,” is gaining attention through the use of neon-lit trucks displaying actual quotes from callers to the 988 hotline such as, “umm, hi. I just need someone to talk to.” This thought-provoking initiative aims to encourage more individuals to reach out for help by showcasing the bravery it takes to ask for support.
According to state officials, one consistent problem across multiple communities is the stigma surrounding seeking help. While increasing numbers reflect more people are tapping resources, there’s still hesitancy among various demographics. Morgan Evans, community coordinator for the Utah Department of Health, noted how personal connections can make all the difference. She advised people to initiate discussions around mental health, emphasizing basic conversations can lead to someone getting the help they need.
While some regions are making strides toward promoting awareness, the challenges remain high, especially among veterans. September 22 has been earmarked to raise awareness for veterans' mental health, identifying specific risk factors and warning signs associated with veteran-related suicides. Dr. Blake Harris from the Texas Veterans Commission highlighted the importance of checking on friends, family, and coworkers who may exhibit signs of distress, such as irritability or withdrawal.
The figures are alarming; recent reports show over 6,000 veterans died by suicide across the nation, prompting urgent actions from military organizations and support groups alike. Dr. Harris deserves recognition for perennially pushing for increased engagement with resources available for those who served. "Ask if they’re thinking about suicide. And if they are, say, okay, well, let’s get you connected to services. Let’s find someone," he advised.
The sentiment shared by many across the board is simple: reach out. Whether through the 988 hotline, mental health professionals, or simply speaking to someone they trust, help is out there. Advocates agree, more attention surrounding this topic, especially during National Suicide Prevention Month, is key to keeping families, friends, and communities united against the rising tide of mental health crisis.
Multi-faceted approaches are also being pushed to tackle the overarching issues tied to mental health. For example, Todd Soutor, director of Davis Behavioral Health, shared insights on innovative strategies being adopted to support local individuals experiencing crises. His organization stands ready to assist anyone and develop specific long-term solutions for those reaching out.
It’s evident—through stress, anxiety, and the myriad of challenges faced—individuals must lean on each other and utilize available services. It starts with conversations surrounding mental health and ends with the important reminder: you are not alone. With resources like the 988 hotline, local support organizations, and apps like SafeUT, individuals are encouraged to connect, acknowledge, and seek the help they deserve.
The theme of National Suicide Prevention Month immensely reflects the urgent need for proactive steps toward mental well-being. Every listener, every conversation, and every phone call holds the potential to save lives. Continuously advocating for both awareness and accessibility for mental health resources leads to communities built on compassion and support.
Although the goal is to eliminate suicide through increased awareness, it’s also about fostering environments where discussions about mental health become as commonplace as conversations about physical health. Keeping conversations open and encouraging individuals to share their struggles helps ensures no one faces their battle alone. So this month, and beyond, reaching out for help must be regarded as strength—not weakness.
Past years have seen various positive indicators of progress, signifying hope for many. With each passing year, initiatives like the 988 hotline and local outreach programs pave the way toward encompassing effective community support. By remaining dedicated to these conversations, both individuals and organizations alike can contribute to empowering anybody affected by mental health challenges.
The essence is clear: there’s value in reaching out. If you or someone you know needs help, don’t hesitate to call or text 988. Resources are available, and it all begins with you taking the first step. Let’s embrace the spirit of this month with the resolution to support one another, extend compassion, and together make strides toward preventing suicides.
