September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Every September, communities across the country come together to raise awareness about suicide prevention. It’s a time to learn the warning signs, encourage open conversations about mental health, and remind one another that proven treatments are available.

Understanding the Complexity of Suicide

Suicide is complex. It can be influenced by many factors, including:

• Mental illness

• Substance misuse

• Chronic illness

• Trauma

• Painful losses

• Exposure to violence

• Social isolation

Because there are often multiple contributing factors, it’s important to watch for warning signs and take them seriously.

Warning Signs to Look For

Attached below are resources with warning signs for both youth and adults. If you notice these behaviors in a family member, friend, neighbor, coworker, or anyone else, don’t ignore them. Suicide risk is greater when a behavior is new, has increased, or seems connected to a painful event, loss, or major change.

Crisis Help and Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling, these trusted resources can help:

• Crisis Help: Suicide, Mental Health, Drug, and Alcohol Issues

• Help Yourself | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

• I Want to Help My Friend | Jed Foundation

• Be the Friend Who Listens | Seize the Awkward

• Survivors of Suicide Loss | Suicide Prevention Resource Center

• A Guide for Taking Care of Your Family Member After Treatment in the Emergency Department

• A Guide for Taking Care of Yourself After Your Treatment in the Emergency Department

• Helping Your Loved One Who is Suicidal: A Guide for Family and Friends

View the full list of Suicide and Suicide Prevention Resources here:
https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/suicidal-behavior/resources

A Personal Journey Toward Healing

Healing doesn’t look the same for everyone—it’s a deeply personal process. But there is hope. Many people have found recovery and resilience, even after the darkest moments.

For inspiration, read real stories of hope and recovery at 988lifeline.org/stories.

Local Support is Here

The Prevention Team at the MLK Center is here to help. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out: (309) 732-2999
Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, 630 9th Street, Rock Island, IL 61201

Content adapted from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).