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Recognizing Signs and Offering Support

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on a topic that affects millions but is often shrouded in silence. 

Suicide is a global public health concern, and in the U.S. alone, over 47,000 lives are lost to suicide each year, according to the CDC. 

Suicide Rate (2023): Utah’s age-adjusted suicide rate was 20.93 per 100,000 persons from 2021 to 2023, with an average of 685 suicides per year. In 2023 specifically, there were 696 suicide deaths. This rate is higher than the national age-adjusted suicide rate of 14.12 per 100,000 in 2023.

Why Suicide Awareness Matters

Suicide doesn’t discriminate—it can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. The stigma surrounding mental health often prevents people from seeking help or sharing their struggles. Raising awareness helps break this stigma, encourages early intervention, and reminds those in pain that they are not alone. By learning to recognize the signs and knowing how to respond, we can save lives.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Recognizing when someone may be struggling with suicidal thoughts is critical. While every individual is different, here are some common signs and symptoms to be aware of:

Verbal Cues: 

1.  Talking about wanting to die or “not being here anymore.”

2.  Expressing feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or being a burden to others.

3.  Statements like “Everyone would be better off without me” or “I have no reason to live.”

Behavioral Changes: 

1.  Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities they once enjoyed. They no longer enjoy things they normally do.

2.  Giving away personal belongings or making plans, such as writing a will or saying goodbye.

3.  Engaging in risky or self-destructive behaviors, like substance abuse or reckless driving, or spending money they don’t normally do.

Emotional Indicators: 

1.  Extreme mood swings, ranging from deep sadness to sudden calmness or euphoria (which may indicate a decision has been made).

2.  Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or despair.

3.  Showing signs of anxiety, agitation, or irritability.

Physical Signs: 

1.  Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping.

2.  Loss of appetite or significant weight changes.

3.  Fatigue or lack of energy that persists over time.

Situational Triggers: 

1.  Recent losses, such as the death of a loved one, a breakup, or job loss.

2.  Financial stress, legal troubles, or major life transitions.

3.  A history of trauma, abuse, or previous suicide attempts.

If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, take them seriously. Not everyone will exhibit all symptoms, but even subtle changes can be a red flag.

How to Reach Out for Help

If you’re struggling with suicidal thoughts, know that help is available, and you are not alone. Here are steps to take:

Talk to Someone You Trust:

Reach out to a friend, family member, or mentor. Sharing how you feel can lighten the burden and open the door to support. Be honest about your emotions, even if it feels uncomfortable. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Contact a Helpline:  

In the U.S., call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 (available 24/7). It’s free, confidential, and staffed by trained counselors.

Internationally, organizations like the International Association for Suicide Prevention (findahelpline.com) can connect you to local resources.

Seek Professional Support:  

A therapist, counselor, or psychologist can provide tools to manage your mental health. Ask your doctor for a referral or search for local mental health services.

If you’re in immediate danger, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

Build a Support Network:

Surround yourself with people who uplift you. Join a support group, either in-person or online, to connect with others who understand what you’re going through.

Apps like BetterHelp or Talkspace offer virtual therapy for those who prefer online support.

How to Talk to Others About Suicide

If you suspect someone is struggling, approaching the conversation with care can make a significant impact. Here’s how to help:

Start the Conversation:

Choose a private, calm setting to talk. Use open-ended questions like, “I’ve noticed you seem down lately—how are you really doing?”

Be direct but gentle. For example, “I’m worried about you. Are you having thoughts about hurting yourself?”

Listen Without Judgment:

Let them share their feelings without interrupting or offering quick fixes. Validate their emotions by saying things like, “That sounds really heavy—I’m here for you.”  Avoid dismissive phrases like “You’ll get over it” or “Things aren’t that bad.”

Encourage Professional Help:

Suggest seeking help from a counselor or calling a helpline. Offer to assist, such as helping them find a therapist or going with them to an appointment.  If they’re resistant, gently remind them that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Stay Involved:

Check in regularly, even if it’s just a text or call to show you care. Encourage small, positive steps, like engaging in hobbies or spending time with supportive people.

Know When to Act:

If someone expresses an immediate plan to harm themselves, don’t leave them alone. Call 988 or 911 or emergency services right away.

Remove access to dangerous items, like firearms or medications, if possible and safe to do so.

Breaking the Stigma

One of the biggest barriers to suicide prevention is stigma. Many people feel ashamed to admit they’re struggling, fearing judgment or rejection. As a community, we can change this by normalizing mental health conversations. Share resources, educate others, and model vulnerability by talking about your own mental health when appropriate. 

Every small action counts!

Resources for SupportU.S.: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)

Veterans Crisis Line: 988, then press 1

Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth): 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678

Global Resources: Visit findahelpline.com for local helplines

Mental Health Apps: Try Headspace, Calm, or Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741 in the U.S.)

My Final Thoughts

Suicide prevention starts with awareness, compassion, and action. By recognizing the signs, reaching out for help, and supporting those around us, we can create a world where no one feels alone in their pain. If you or someone you know is struggling, take that first step today—whether it’s a conversation, a call to a helpline, or seeking professional support. Your life, and the lives of those you care about, are worth it.Let’s keep the conversation going. Share this blog, talk openly about mental health, and together, let’s save lives.

Until next time,

Aaron Nicolaides, PhD, LCSW

Therapeuo Health – “Tackling physical and emotional pain”