September is Suicide Prevention Month: Here's How to Make a Difference
Last updated: September 8, 2025, at 11:04 a.m. PT
Originally published: September 5, 2025, at 3:39 p.m. PT
Written by Cassandra Harmon, LMHC a Therapist in Behavioral Health Services with contributions by Maia Merino with the Y’s Children’s Crisis Response System
September is Suicide Prevention Month — a time to reflect, raise awareness, and learn how to support loved ones who may be struggling with their mental health. At the YMCA Social Impact Center, our mental health professionals work every day to break stigma, open doors for conversation, and ensure young people and families know they are not alone.
Debunking Common Myths
Does talking about suicide make someone more likely to act on their thoughts?
No. In fact, open and caring conversations can be life-changing. Talking directly about suicide can reduce fear, help someone feel less isolated, and remind them they are cared for.
Do only certain people struggle with suicidal thoughts?
No. Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone. In the United States, 1 in 20 adults experience serious thoughts of suicide each year. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10–14 and young adults ages 15–24. Understanding that anyone can be affected helps reduce stigma and makes it easier to seek support.
Do I have to be an expert to notice when someone is struggling?
No. You don’t need to be a professional to notice when a friend or loved one needs extra support. Maybe they seem more irritable than usual, their behavior has changed, or they’ve been posting concerning content online. Paying attention and checking in can make a real difference.
How You Can Support Someone in Crisis
Start the conversation
It doesn’t have to be perfect — just caring. You might say:
- “Seems like something is going on. Do you want to talk about it?”
- “Hey, we haven’t talked in a while. How are you doing?”
- “Are you okay? You don’t seem like yourself.”
Conversations can happen anywhere — in person, over text, during a walk, or even while playing a game together. What matters is creating space for honesty.
Take them seriously
If someone shares they are having suicidal thoughts, stay with them. Listen without judgment, remain calm, and let them know their life matters to you. Avoid anger or accusations, which can cause shame. Encourage them to call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and offer to help make the call if needed. Remember, you don’t have to carry this alone — call on other trusted friends, parents, or teachers for support.
Encourage connection to resources
Offer to help your loved one find professional support. Sometimes they may not be ready to accept help right away. Don’t give up — let them know you’re there when they’re ready, and continue to show care without judgment.
A Reminder
You never know who may be struggling — sometimes the people who seem the happiest are hurting the most. Asking directly about suicide reduces stigma and shows you care about hearing the truth. Sharing vulnerably yourself can also create space for others to open up.
The YMCA Social Impact Center is Here to Help
The YMCA Social Impact Center provides wraparound support for youth and young adults, including shelter, counseling, employment training, and educational resources. We also provide counseling services and suicide prevention programs for people of all ages.
Last year:
- 1,112 referrals were made to our Crisis Outreach and Response System, with 372 participants enrolling.
- 1,664 individuals received mental health counseling — expanding our reach by 9.5%.
If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out. And remember: it only takes one conversation to start a path toward hope.
Learn more about the Y's Children’s Crisis Outreach Response System
More resources:
Learn more about suicide prevention resources at the Y >>