As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, September brings with it a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health. Designated as Suicide Prevention Month, this time of year serves as a crucial period for raising awareness, offering support and spreading hope to those who may be struggling.
“Some ways to help support someone who has lost one to suicide is to just show them that they have someone to lean on,” English teacher John Lewis said. “I myself have experienced that and just staying in communication is most important.”
Suicide is a topic that is often covered in silence and stigma, yet it affects countless lives across all age groups and backgrounds. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is one of the top eleven leading causes of death in the United States, with 49,476 americans dying of suicide and 1.6 million attempts all in the year 2022. This month is a time to break the silence and extend a hand of compassion and understanding.
“I think the biggest thing that social media can do is normalize the fact that mental health care needs are very real and common,” Assistant Principal Katty Kelley said. “And it’s not something we should look at with shame or embarrassment because everyone’s feelings are valid.”
One of the most impactful ways to make a difference is through education. By learning to recognize the signs of someone in distress, such as drastic changes in behavior, withdrawal from friends and activities, or expressions of hopelessness, we can take the first steps toward offering help. It’s essential to remember that asking someone if they are okay or if they need support can be a lifesaving act.
“I think most times people think that students or people who are experiencing wanting to hurt themselves it’s going to be right in there face,” counselor Brittany Wheaton said. “But we need to always remember that those students are probably gonna show the least signs and that’s what we need to be more careful with.”
But beyond any organized efforts, the most significant impact often comes from simple, everyday actions. A kind word, a listening ear, or a genuine check-in can make all the difference. There should be a culture where it’s okay to talk about feelings, where seeking help is seen as a strength and where everyone feels valued and heard. By standing together, this can create a community where everyone feels safe, supported, and understood. Everyone must remember that they are not alone, and there is always hope.
“There are so many things out there to help anyone out and of those things that we offer is a mental service that helps the process of finding help for a family or individuals,” Wheaton said. “Another source is definitely the helpline, 988, that will always have someone at the other end of the phone and is open 24/7.”
