🎗️You’re Not Alone: A Conversation About Suicide Prevention

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Key Points:

• Mental health struggles are often hidden, making open conversations and check-ins essential.

• Recognizing warning signs like mood swings or withdrawal can help prevent suicide.

• Simple coping strategies—like grounding exercises and journaling—can support emotional safety.

• Telehealth and digital tools make mental health care more accessible and practical.

• On September 17th, join a free event that offers connection, resources, and hope for anyone seeking support.

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By Matee Gooknuh, MSW

Ever felt overwhelmed but kept it to yourself? You’re definitely not alone. I’ve struggled with my mental health, too, and I know just how important support can be. I lost a close friend to suicide. Her struggles were hidden—masked by stigma—and her loss reminded me why it’s so important to talk openly about mental health.

Suicide is complicated and tragic, but it can be prevented. With Suicide Awareness Month here, I've put together a guide with key information—warning signs, coping tools, and support resources. It’s easy to read and share, whether you’re checking in on yourself or someone you care about. Take what you need and pass it on- it could help someone else. 

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Spot the Warning Signs: Here's What to Look For 

It’s not always obvious when someone’s struggling- or when to know to give support. Here are warning signs to watch for: 

Talking about...

• Talking about wanting to die 

• Great guilt or shame

• Being a burden

Feeling...

• Ongoing sadness or hopelessness 

• Extremely sad, more anxious, full of rage

• Unbearable emotional or physical pain

Changing Behavior...

• Withdrawing from friends or activities 

• Giving away items that matter to them

• Displaying extreme mood swings

• Eating or sleeping more or less

• Using drugs or alcohol more often

If you notice any warning signs, trust your gut and check in. Even a simple, “How are you really doing?” can make someone feel seen. Reaching out for help as soon as possible—whether for yourself or someone else—can truly change a life.

Now that you are aware of the warning signs and risk factors, let’s talk about everyday strategies that can help you or someone you care about stay safe and cope more effectively.

Learn more about suicide prevention.

Coping—Simple Steps That Help 

Managing stress and tough emotions can be challenging, but taking small actions can help. If you’re struggling with thoughts of suicide or deep hopelessness, these small steps can make a difference: 

• Reach out to a trusted friend, professional, or helpline (even a short text counts) 

• Work with someone you trust to create a safety plan, including warning signs, personal reasons for living, and supportive contacts. 

• Remove or secure items in your home that could be used for self-harm 

• Distract yourself with a walk, music, or a favorite show 

• Practice grounding: name five things you see, four you can touch, three you hear, two you smell, one you taste 

• Write your feelings out or journal about how you are feeling

• Focus on self-care basics: eat, drink water, rest 

Looking for more resources:

For U.S. readers: 

• Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 

• Visit nami.org for mental health resources 

• Schedule an appointment: https://www.athometherapyservices.com/  

For international readers:  

• Find crisis helplines worldwide at https://findahelpline.com 

For additional support, consider online counseling, support groups, or consulting with a spiritual leader. Asking for help is brave—every step matters, and support is close by.

If you're worried about a loved one, remember: even a quick check-in or kind word can make all the difference.

Telehealth & Digital Support

Telehealth and digital tools like online therapy, mental health apps, and crisis text lines make support easier to access than ever. Nearly 40% of U.S. adults who got mental health care last year did so through telehealth [1]. Research shows online therapy is effective for depression and anxiety [2]. During the pandemic, telepsychiatry enabled people to receive care safely from home [3]. If you’re interested, stick with trusted providers and safeguard your privacy. No matter where you are, quick access to help can make all the difference—and even save lives. 

Start Therapy!

Next Steps: Spread Hope & Check In

Reaching out takes courage—and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you're navigating your own healing or holding space for someone else, hope is always within reach.

Join us on September 17th for a free community event designed to offer support, connection, and tools for collective care. It’s a space to learn, reflect, and recharge—whether you're a mental health advocate, a concerned friend, or simply someone seeking a soft landing. Let’s show up for each other. Let’s make healing feel possible.

You matter. Your voice matters. And we’re here—together.

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Have a tip or resource? Share it in the comments or pass this blog along—we can build a stronger, more supportive community together.  

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References:

[1] SAMHSA. (2023). Nearly 40% of U.S. adults got mental health care through telehealth last year. 

[2] Shore, J. H., Yellowlees, P., Caudill, R., Johnston, B., Turvey, C., Mishkind, M., Krupinski, E., Myers, K., Shore, P., Kaftarian, E., & Hilty, D. (2018). Best practices in videoconferencing-based telemental health. Telemedicine and e-Health, 24(11), 827-832. 

[3] Unützer, J., Kuelker, R., & Bhatia, R. (2020). Telepsychiatry and the COVID-19 pandemic—Current and future outcomes of the rapid virtualization of psychiatric care. JAMA Psychiatry, 77(12), 1213-1214.