BEDFORD – September is a month dedicated to many things, but nothing is quite as important as making sure those who need support get it, such as those who are considering suicide. September is suicide prevention month, but we should be striving to prevent it year-round.
Nothing is as precious as human life, and people deserve to know that they matter, are cared for, and that it’s okay to not be okay.
Mental health is inextricably connected to physical health and is just as important, if not more so.
If you or someone you know is depressed and considering suicide, it’s time you know that there’s a better way.
Call 988 anytime, anywhere, for judgment-free 24-hour access to trained crisis specialists who can help those experiencing mental-health-related distress.
Calling 988 can help you manage things such as:
- Thoughts of suicide
- Mental health or substance use crisis
- Emotional distress of any kind
Ways you can help those who need it:
- Ask “Are you thinking about suicide”
- Be present and available for that person; show up when they need it
- Keep them safe by knowing if they have a plan or access to lethal means
- Help them connect to resources and information on mental health professionals
- Check in and see how they’re doing
- Notice if something seems off – not everyone is going to volunteer info that there is something wrong
