Monthly Events

September is Suicide Prevention Month! 

You can take action for suicide prevention by learning the warning signs, finding the words to support a friend, or by reaching out for help. 

Most of us have been touched by the tragedy of suicide. We may have lost someone close to us or been moved by the loss of someone we may have never met. When a suicide happens, those left behind often experience deep shock. Even if they knew the person was struggling, they may not have expected suicide would be the result. However, many people who find themselves in a suicide crisis can and do recover. We all have a role to play in suicide prevention. There are actions you can take right now to support yourself and those around you:

• Know the Signs: Most people who are considering suicide show some warning signs or signals of their intentions. Learn to recognize these warning signs and how to respond to them by visiting Know the Signs Website

• Find the Words: If you are concerned about someone, ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. This can be difficult to do but being direct provides an opportunity for them to open up and talk about their distress and will not suggest the idea to them if they aren’t already thinking about it. The “Find the Words” section of the Know the Signs Website suggests ways to start the conversation.

• Reach Out: You are not alone in this. Before having the conversation, become familiar with some resources to offer to the person you are concerned about. Visit the Reach Out section of the Know the Signs Website to identify where you can find help for your friend or loved one.

• Encourage students to create and submit art and films to the Directing Change Program (grades 6-12). Submit to monthly art and film contest (submissions due September 30, 2022, up to $300 in prizes)) Ways to get involved include:View, share, or screen youth produced 30-second and 60-second films about mental health and suicide prevention.

• “A New Tomorrow” tells a story through a memory book, where a boy reflects on the changes he noticed in his friend and how he got her the support she needed.
• “The Promise” is about a girl who is concerned about the changes she notices in her friend asks, “Are you thinking of suicide?” She then offers to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline together.
• “True Colors” a friend brings color back into someone’s life by getting them the help that they need and staying by their side. The narrator shares that she is glad she reached out, because over time her friend becomes more relaxed and happier.