A Guide to Suicide Prevention This September and Beyond

September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. This is an important time to learn, reflect, and take action. Suicide impacts countless lives and touches families, friends, and communities in ways that are hidden. Awareness, support, and connection can save lives. At Being Human Group, we are committed to creating safe spaces and supporting healing because NO ONE should face mental health battles alone!

Understanding Suicide

Suicide is a serious public health issue, but understanding it can help reduce stigma and promote prevention efforts. One of the most important steps is deciphering between myths and facts. For example, some people might think that talking about suicide encourages it. In reality, open conversations are a KEY preventive measure because they allow people to feel heard and validated!

Suicide Risk Factors:

• Mental health struggles, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
• Experiences of abuse or trauma.
• Social isolation or lack of a support network.
• Stressful life events, such as relationship or financial difficulties.
• Access to lethal means without safe storage.

Protective Factors for Suicide Prevention:

• Supportive relationships with friends and family.
• Access to mental health care, such as counseling, therapy, and medication if appropriate.
• Coping skills and strategies for managing stress.
• Community connection and a sense of belonging.For more detailed guidance on risk and protective factors, please visit the Suicide Prevention Resource Center

How Can You Help?

Preventing suicide starts with knowing the warning signs. These may include:

• Expressing hopelessness or having no reason to live.
• Withdrawing from activities, friends, or family.
• Talking about self-harm or death.
• Extreme mood swings or behavior changes.

If you notice these signs in a loved one, responding with care and empathy can make a SIGNIFICANT difference! Check in regularly, listen without judgment, and help connect them to the appropriate resources. Remember, PREVENTION BEGINS WITH CONNECTION!

For guidance on responding to suicidal behavior and supporting an individual in crisis, please visit the CDC’s Suicide Prevention Resources

What Resources Can You Access?

Support is available 24/7, and there are services tailored to each individual's needs:

• The Trevor Project: Provides confidential crisis intervention and suicide prevention support for LGBTQ+ youth via phone and text. They offer trained counselors and resources to help young people feel seen and supported.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: A nationwide, 24/7 lifeline for anyone experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts. Callers can access trained counselors who can provide immediate guidance, safety planning, and referrals to services near you.
• Michigan Crisis & Access Line (MiCAL): Offers free, confidential support to Michigan residents experiencing mental health or substance use crises. The service includes phone and online chat support, helping people connect to local mental health professionals and emergency services.

How Does Being Human Group Support Suicide Prevention?

At Being Human Group, we are dedicated to creating a community where all humans feel safe, supported, and understood.

1. Safe conversations: We provide nonjudgmental spaces where you can express your thoughts, feelings, and struggles openly.
2. Community connection: We encourage building relationships that reduce isolation, a key factor in mental health and suicide prevention.
3. Hope and healing: We help you develop resilience and access ongoing resources for mental wellness.

Take Action This September and Beyond

YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Suicide prevention is a collective effort, and every single action matters, whether it be attending a community walk, checking in with a friend, or volunteering to support mental health initiatives. At Being Human Group, we make a difference one conversation, one connection, one life at a time!

Community Engagement: Getting involved in community initiatives is a meaningful way to contribute to suicide prevention!

Join walks and events: Participating in these activities helps raise awareness, reduce stigma, and foster community support.

• Downriver Area: AFSP Walk: https://afspwalks.donordrive.com/Downriver
• Plymouth Area: Strength Over Suicide Walk: https://www.michigan.gov/mvaa/events/2025/09/27/plymouth-strength-over-suicide#:~:text=Register%20to%20Vote-,Plymouth%20Strength%20Over%20Suicide,Zoom%20out 

Check in with loved ones: Small acts of thoughtfulness, such as sending a text or asking how someone is feeling, can have a BIG impact.

Promote understanding: Advocate for mental health education, awareness, and compassionate communication in your community.

Moving Towards Hope

While September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, it is important to remember that your support is needed YEAR-ROUND. Being Human Group keeps the conversation alive beyond September by offering ongoing support and resources that strengthen community connection and promote resilience. Recovery and healing are possible! Reach out today to get support from a Michigan therapist.