Suicide Prevention Month: Breaking the Silence, Building Hope
- Dr. Alicia C. Moore
- Sep 17
- 2 min read
How Conversations, Connection, and Support Can Save Lives
Every September, Suicide Prevention Month reminds us of an essential truth: your life matters.
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable. Behind every statistic is a person—a friend, parent, sibling, or co-worker facing pain they may feel unable to share. The silence around suicide often comes from stigma, shame, or fear of judgment.
At Passionate Path Counseling, I believe that talking about suicide doesn’t encourage it; it prevents it. By raising awareness, listening without judgment, and offering support, we can help create space for healing and hope.
The Importance of Awareness
Mental health struggles don’t always look the same. Warning signs of suicide may include:
Withdrawal from friends or activities
Expressing hopelessness or feeling like a burden
Sudden mood changes (especially going from sad to calm or relieved)
Talking about death or giving away possessions
Struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or overwhelming stress
Awareness is the first step. Recognizing these signs gives us the chance to step in with compassion and care.
How to Support Someone Who May Be Struggling
If you’re worried about someone in your life:
Start with empathy. Ask gently, “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself. How are you really doing? ”
Listen without judgment. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply be present.
Encourage professional help. Suggest counseling, therapy, or talking to a doctor.
Stay connected. Regular check-ins such as calls, texts, or visits remind them they’re not alone.
And if you are the one struggling, please know this: reaching out for help is not weakness. It is a courageous step toward healing.
If you or someone you know is struggling, here are immediate resources:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 anytime for free, confidential support.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org
Mental Health America Screening Tool: www.mhascreening.org
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): www.afsp.org
Are you ready to move from success to fulfillment? Passionate Path Counseling is here to help. We provide virtual therapy for adults, professionals, couples, and families navigating anxiety, stress, burnout, and life transitions. Let’s work together to build resilience, align your goals with meaning, and create a life that feels deeply rewarding.
Comments