Key Takeaways
- Suicide Prevention Month encourages more open conversations about suicide and mental health, including checking in when someone you care about seems to be struggling.
- Warning signs can look different from person to person. Changes in mood, behavior, relationships, substance use, or the way someone talks about themselves may be reasons to check in.
- If you are concerned that someone may be thinking about suicide, it is appropriate to ask them directly and take what they tell you seriously.
- Support is available at different levels depending on what you need, from immediate crisis support through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line to ongoing therapy at Integrative Psychological Services.
September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to talk more openly about suicide prevention, reduce the stigma, and consider how we can support someone who may be struggling.
The World Health Organization’s theme for World Suicide Prevention Day from 2024 through 2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” with the call to action, “Start the Conversation.” The campaign encourages more open conversations about suicide and aims to make it easier for people to speak honestly about what they are experiencing.
Starting that conversation does not always happen during an obvious crisis. It might begin when you notice that a friend has stopped returning calls, your teenager seems increasingly withdrawn, or someone you love is having a particularly difficult time after a loss, breakup, major transition, or other stressful experience.
Talking about suicide can feel uncomfortable, especially when you are worried about saying the ‘wrong thing’. A good place to begin is to check in when someone seems to be struggling and give them space to talk about how they are feeling.
Recognizing When Someone May Be Struggling
Suicidal thoughts can affect people in different ways and may not always be obvious to others. A person may tell you directly that they are struggling, while someone else may become more withdrawn or begin behaving differently than usual.
Possible warning signs can include:
- Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or like a burden
- Withdrawing from people or activities they usually care about
- Significant changes in mood, sleep, or behavior
- Increasing alcohol or substance use
- Giving away meaningful belongings or saying unexpected goodbyes
- Talking or writing about death or suicide
- Engaging in unusually dangerous or risky behavior
- Experiencing emotional pain that feels overwhelming
One change does not necessarily mean that someone is considering suicide.What you know about the person and what has changed for them matters, too. If someone you know well does not seem like themselves or something about their behavior concerns you, it is okay to check in.
Starting a Conversation About Suicide
Many people worry that they will say the wrong thing when someone they care about is struggling. You do not need to have the conversation planned before you reach out.
Start with what you have noticed. You might tell a friend that they have seemed quieter lately or ask how they have been coping with something difficult in their life. Give them time to answer and try to listen without minimizing what they are feeling or immediately looking for a solution.
If you are concerned that someone may be thinking about suicide, you may want to ask directly. Research shows that asking about suicide does not typically increase suicidal thoughts or behavior and may in fact decrease distress. Talking about suicidal thoughts can be difficult, and knowing someone is willing to listen may make it easier to share what has been happening.
If someone tells you they are considering suicide, take them seriously and help them connect with immediate crisis support. Stay with them when possible while they get help. If there is an immediate or life-threatening danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
For additional guidance, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers resources on how to talk and listen to someone experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Making Mental Health Conversations More Common
Suicide Prevention Month brings important attention to mental health each September, but the conversations it encourages are relevant throughout the year. Talking more openly about stress, anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, and other emotional experiences can make it easier for people to share when they are having a difficult time.
These conversations can become part of everyday relationships. We can ask friends how they are doing and make time for a real answer. Parents can create space for children and teenagers to talk about difficult emotions. Partners and family members can check in during stressful periods rather than waiting until it becomes clear that someone is struggling.
We can also be more open about our own mental health. Sharing that we are overwhelmed, having a hard time, going to therapy, or needing additional support can help make these conversations feel less unusual or uncomfortable.
The goal of “Start the Conversation” does not have to end when Suicide Prevention Month does. Continuing to talk about mental health throughout the year can help create families, friendships, workplaces, schools, and communities where asking for support feels more natural.
Suicide and Crisis Resources in Massachusetts
Someone experiencing a mental health crisis, or suicidal thoughts that include an active plan, intent, or immediate concern for their safety, may need a higher level of support than an outpatient therapy practice can provide.
Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline provides free, confidential crisis support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If someone is in immediate or life-threatening danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Massachusetts residents can also access the state’s Behavioral Health Help Line by calling or texting 833-773-2445 for help finding mental health and substance use services.
When You Are Ready to Talk
At Integrative Psychological Services, our clinicians provide individualized therapy for adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in Brookline and the greater Boston area. Whether you have been struggling for some time or have recently recognized that you could use additional support, therapy can give you space to talk openly about what you are experiencing.
If you are interested in working with one of our clinicians, contact IPS to schedule a complimentary consultation. We can help match you with a therapist based on what you are looking for, or you can visit our team page to learn more about our clinicians and choose who feels like the right fit for you.
Integrative Psychological Services is an outpatient therapy practice and does not provide emergency or crisis services. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or is in immediate danger, please seek emergency assistance. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If there is an immediate or life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency center.