Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month

Creating space for honest, compassionate conversations that can help

save lives

In the quiet corners of our homes, schools, workplaces, and hidden places, many of us still

whisper about suicide. We may plug our ears, turn away, or gently—or not so gently—hush

those who speak about it openly. For many people, even saying the word suicide can feel

uncomfortable or taboo. Yet suicide is real, and it has affected countless lives. Most of us have

been impacted by suicide in some way, whether through our own pain, the struggle of

someone we love, or the grief of a community.

September is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. Over the years, more people have

begun speaking honestly about mental health, intrusive thoughts, suicide attempts, loss, and

survival. Some people feel ready to share their experiences; others may choose to keep their

stories private. Both responses deserve respect. It is natural to feel uneasy when we are talking

about something painful, complex, or unfamiliar. But that discomfort is also where meaningful

change can begin.

At the heart of suicide prevention is the willingness to bring pain into the light with care,

honesty, and compassion. When we talk about suicide directly and respectfully, we make room

for people to be seen, heard, and supported. As a community, we have the power to help save

lives. My hope for this blog is to offer practical ways to begin difficult conversations, stay

present in them, and connect people with the support they need.

Start by Making Space

Let’s begin with the conversation itself. Difficult conversations can also be healing

conversations when we approach them with patience and care. As a therapist, I have learned to

notice certain words, body language, and other cues that may suggest someone is carrying

more than they are saying. Recognizing those moments is important, but knowing how to

respond matters just as much.

Many of us notice when someone seems different, withdrawn, overwhelmed, or unlike

themselves. We may hope the struggle will pass or that someone else will step in. Sometimes

we simply do not know what to look for. One of the most meaningful things we can offer is

time. Give your loved ones, friends, coworkers, students, neighbors, and community members

the kind of time you would hope someone would offer you.

When we slow down enough to notice, listen, and seek understanding, we create real

connection. That connection can support another person’s mental health, and it can strengthen

our own sense of community as well. Our time matters to the people who receive it.

Begin with a Simple, Caring Question

These conversations can feel intimidating, but they do not have to begin perfectly. Start by

gently naming what you have noticed. You might say, “It seems like you are struggling,” or “I

noticed you seem to be having a difficult day.” A simple observation can help someone feel

seen instead of judged.

From there, ask an open and compassionate question: “Would you feel comfortable telling me

what you are feeling?” or “Can you tell me more about what you are experiencing today?”

Questions like these open the door to conversation. Sometimes, once people know someone is

paying attention, they may begin to share because they finally feel less alone.

Listen Without Rushing to Fix

The second—and perhaps most important—step is to listen. If you ask someone how they are

doing, be prepared to stay present with the answer. It can be tempting to change the subject,

offer quick advice, or try to cheer them up because their pain makes us uncomfortable. But true

listening means allowing the person to speak without immediately trying to solve, correct, or

minimize what they are feeling.

You might respond with statements such as, “That sounds really hard,” or “I had no idea you

were carrying this.” These words communicate that you are listening, that the conversation is

safe enough to continue, and that the person does not have to hide their experience from you.

Ask Follow-Up Questions with Compassionate Curiosity

The third step is to ask thoughtful follow-up questions. This shows that you are listening and

that you are willing to remain engaged rather than stepping away when the conversation

becomes difficult. Keep your questions connected to what the person has shared.

For example, if someone says they feel depressed or “not good enough,” you might ask, “Can I

ask what you mean when you say you feel depressed?” or “Can you tell me more about what

not feeling good enough has been like for you?” Questions asked with kindness can help people

feel less isolated. They communicate, “I see the road you are on, and I am willing to walk beside

you.”

Connection Can Help Save Lives

The more we talk openly and compassionately about another person’s experience, the more

connection we create. And connection matters. It can remind someone that even when life

feels unbearably difficult, they do not have to face that pain alone.

If you are worried about someone, trust that concern. Reach out, ask directly and kindly, listen

without judgment, and help them connect with professional or crisis support when needed.

Compassion does not require perfect words. It begins with presence, patience, and the

willingness to stay.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or may be considering suicide, call or text

988 in the U.S. and Canada to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or contact local emergency

services right away.