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Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month – a time to remember the lives lost to suicide, acknowledge the millions more who have experienced suicidal thoughts, and the many individuals, families and communities that have been impacted by suicide. It’s also a time to raise awareness about suicide prevention and share messages of hope.

During September, and throughout the year, we can care about suicide prevention; connect to community, culture, data, and research; and collaborate with others to address this public health problem that has impacted millions of Americans.

How You Can Help

Educate yourself and others about suicide prevention: Learn the warning signs and risk factors for suicide, how to support someone considering suicide, and familiarize yourself with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Visit the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC): Each year, the SPRC creates a resource full of ways to get involved in Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Here is the resource for 2024!

Read and share the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and Federal Action Plan.

Visit the Suicide and Suicidal Behavior webpage to learn about SAMHSA’s Suicide Prevention initiatives.

Social Media Toolkit

  • #SuicidePreventionMonth
  • #SPM24
  • #NSSP
  • #BeThe1To
  • #988Day
  • #SuicidePrevention

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month with a ribbon symbol. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month with a heart hand icon symbol. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24.

Post Copy - All Platforms: September marks #SuicidePreventionMonth – a time to remember the lives lost to suicide, the millions who have struggled with suicidal thoughts & the individuals, families, and communities that have been impacted. #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: It's #SuicidePreventionMonth. Create hope in your family and your community by educating yourself about suicide prevention. Learn the warning signs and risk factors for suicide, how to support someone considering suicide, and familiarize yourself with #988Lifeline #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: #SuicidePrevention is important every day of the year. #SuicidePreventionMonth allows us to shine a special, encouraging light on this topic that affects us all & send a clear, hopeful message that help is available & suicide can be prevented. #SPM24

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National Suicide Prevention Awareness Week with a ribbon symbol. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24.

Post Copy - All Platforms: You can help reduce the risk for #suicide in your community. Learn how to talk to someone who is considering suicide with these action steps: samhsa.gov/mental-health/suicidal-behavior #SPM24 #SuicidePreventionWeek

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World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 with a ribbon and earth symbol. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. We can all help prevent suicide. Understanding the issues concerning suicide and mental health is an important way to take part in suicide prevention, help others in crisis, and change the conversation around suicide. Learn more: samhsa.gov/suicide #WSPD #SPM24

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Infographic titled 'Suicide Warning Signs for Adults', listing behavioral indicators such as acting anxious, talking about feeling trapped, withdrawing, and experiencing extreme mood swings. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24.

Post Copy - All Platforms:  EVERYONE can play a role in suicide prevention. Know the warning signs of suicide and #BeThe1To offer support. Seek help for yourself or others by calling or texting 988 or by chatting with 988Lifeline.org. #SPM2024

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Infographic listing suicide warning signs for youth, including behavioral changes, emotional distress, and changes in sleep or irritability, for Suicide Prevention Month. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24.

Post Copy - All Platforms: Learn and share the warning sides of youth suicide during #SuicidePreventionMonth. If someone is showing any of the warning signs, urge them to contact a mental health professional or #988Lifeline #SPM2024

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Illustration promoting Suicide Prevention Month showing two hands reaching toward each other, with a heart drawn in between, with text “There is help. There is hope.” Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: Everyone can play a role in #SuicidePrevention. When you start a conversation with a loved one who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide, & when you offer support & model self-care, you are providing hope to those who may need it most. #SPM24 #SuicidePreventionWeek

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Graphic image depicting two hands reaching towards each other against a light blue background with text that reads “There is help. There is hope.” Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: There is hope. This #SuicidePreventionMonth, please help share this message: If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988 or chat with 988lifeline.org #988Lifeline #SPM24

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Weekly Themes for Social Media

Suicide Prevention Month with text “Community Support is Key to Suicide Prevention.” Two stylized hands form a heart shape. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: Suicide affects millions of people and touches every community across the U.S. Parents, caregivers, friends, neighbors—we’re all, in some way, impacted by suicide in our everyday lives. This #SPM24 learn how to support your community: samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: Just like it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a community to care. We can all make a difference in someone's life by learning how to support those considering suicide. Together, we can create a stronger, more compassionate community. samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: Community support is key to #SuicidePrevention 💙 Learn & share the warning signs and risk factors of suicide 💜 We can offer hope and help to someone who may be in crisis: 988lifeline.org/how-we-can-all-prevent-suicide #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: We can make a difference. By listening, sharing resources, and offering support, we can help those struggling with suicidal thoughts. Remember, talking about suicide openly can save lives. samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: We can all learn to recognize the warning signs and risk factors of suicide so we can offer hope and help to someone who may be thinking of or at risk for suicide: 988lifeline.org/how-we-can-all-prevent-suicide/ #SuicidePreventionMonth

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Suicide Prevention Month with text “Crisis Support & Treatment Options for You or Someone You Know.” Contact information: 988 Lifeline 988 or 988lifeline.org; FindTreatment.gov; FindSupport.gov. Stylized hands cradling a heart. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: You could be the one to save a life. Learn the warning signs of suicide and reach out to someone who may be struggling. A simple act of kindness can make a world of difference. samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: Strong communities foster strong mental health. We can work together to create supportive environments for our children, adolescents, and adults. Your support matters. samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone. Help is available 24/7. Call or text 988. Remember, recovery is possible. samhsa.gov/find-help/988 #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: Simply listening, and providing support, can make a significant – and even lifesaving – difference in the life of a child, adolescent, or adult. Supportive families and caregivers, peers, schools, and community environments are all associated with improved mental health and well-being. samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

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Suicide Prevention Month with text “Understanding is an important way to take part in suicide prevention.” Illustration of three stylized figures under a heart linked by two hands. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: Suicide is a significant public health problem that touches millions of people across America’s communities. Learn and understand suicide’s impact in your community and find resources to help prevent suicide: samhsa.gov/suicide #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: Understanding the issues concerning suicide is an important way to take part in #SuicidePrevention, help others in crisis, and change the conversation around suicide. Visit samhsa.gov/suicide for resources and information. #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: Suicide is a public health emergency. We need to invest in programs that support mental health and well-being. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the resources they need to thrive. samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: Knowing the warning signs and risk factors of suicide is an important way to take part in suicide prevention and help others in crisis or at risk of suicide. If you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs, seek help by reaching out to the #988Lifeline

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Suicide Prevention Month with text “Suicide Impacts Us All. Help Prevent Suicide & Promote Health Equity.” Hand symbols representing unity and support. Includes hashtags #SuicidePreventionMonth #SPM24

Post Copy - All Platforms: Suicide can affect anyone, regardless of background. We must break down barriers and provide support for all. Let's work together to create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: Cultural sensitivity is key to effective mental health support. Let's celebrate diversity and provide culturally competent care for all. Together, we can create a more supportive and inclusive community. samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: Love and acceptance can save lives. Let's be there for our LGBTQI+ friends and family. Learn how to be an ally and support those in need. Remember, help is available 24/7. Dial 988 and press 3 for LGBTQI+ support. samhsa.gov/suicide #SuicidePreventionMonth

Post Copy - All Platforms: During Suicide Prevention Month, let's focus on promoting health equity. Everyone deserves access to quality mental healthcare and support. Together, we can dismantle barriers and build a more inclusive, supportive environment for all. samhsa.gov/suicide

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National Strategy for Suicide Prevention Graphics

Post Copy - All Platforms: This #SuicidePreventionMonth, SAMHSA is committing to implementing actions identified within the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. Learn more: hhs.gov/nssp. @HHSgov @action_alliance

Post Copy - All Platforms: The 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention is meant to address gaps in the #SuicidePrevention field and promote a coordinated and comprehensive approach through four strategic directions. Learn more: hhs.gov/nssp. @HHSgov @Action_Alliance

Post Copy - All Platforms: The 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention's key areas of focus: @988lifeline, health equity, intersection of suicide and substance use, youth and social media, and lethal means safety. Learn more: hhs.gov/nssp. @HHSGov @Action_Alliance #SPM24

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 Post Graphic (PNG | 398 KB)

Post Copy - All Platforms: The 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention is a commitment to care, connect, and collaborate, and it includes objectives related to improving suicide-related data and research. Visit hhs.gov/nssp for more information on how you can advance this national call to action. @HHSgov @Action_Alliance #SPM24

Post Copy - LinkedIn: Our nation requires a coordinated and comprehensive effort to prevent suicide, particularly for populations disproportionately impacted. Learn how you can help address this national challenge at hhs.gov/nssp. #SPM24

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Upcoming Events

Time: 3 - 4:30 p.m. ET

REGISTER NOW!

The U.S. Department of Education is hosting a webinar on suicide prevention among students, featuring speakers from SAMHSA’s Suicide Prevention Branch and the Garrett Lee Smith State/Tribal grant program. This webinar will give you the latest information on suicide trends among K-12 students. It will also share related risk and protective factors and strategies schools can implement to support suicide prevention based on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. After the presentations, the practitioner and student panelists will talk about strategies they are using to make school climate improvements that build protective factors to prevent suicide.

Time: 2 - 2:30 p.m. ET

Registration is full. Please join us at 2 p.m. ET for SAMHSA’s YouTube livestream.

Join SAMHSA for a special event in honor of National Suicide Prevention Month. SAMHSA’s Suicide Prevention Branch is hosting a fireside chat on Black youth suicide prevention, featuring speakers from SAMHSA, young adults with lived experience, and experts in suicide prevention among Black youth. Research shows that from 2018 to 2021, Black individuals aged 10-24 experienced a 37% increase in suicide, the largest increase among racial groups. This webinar will highlight the efforts of SAMHSA's Black Youth Suicide Prevention Initiative and focus on actions to support youth in their communities. Gain valuable insights from experts and young people about addressing Black youth suicide and learn how to embed equity in suicide prevention efforts.

Past Events

Time: 2 - 3 p.m. ET

Please join the HHS Partnership Center and the SAMHSA 988 and Behavioral Health Crisis Coordinating Office for an informative and hopeful webinar focusing on the three-digit 988 lifeline and crisis response in faith communities. In times of crisis and distress, studies reveal that people often seek help from their faith communities and faith leaders who can offer hope, guidance, emotional well-being, social connection, affirmation, and resources during challenging periods. This webinar will provide important information about suicide prevention and crisis response. As the country celebrates the first observance of 988 Day (9/8/2024) in 2024 with the theme, “No Judgment. Just Help.

HHS is seeking to encourage diverse faith leaders and faith communities to be part of the conversation and take action over the entire weekend from 9/6/24 - 9/8/24 at their regular religious observances. Come prepared to hear and see exciting and informative presentations from key leaders with the HHS Partnership Center, SAMHSA 988 and Behavioral Health Crisis Coordinating Office. We will also have videos, and testimonials from dynamic national faith leaders who have been doing innovative suicide prevention and behavioral health work in their faith communities and achieving positive, life-changing results.

Time: 1 p.m. ET

Join SPRC for the final session of their three-part webinar series on understanding equity in suicide prevention. The SPRC Tribal Initiatives Team will share how cultural experiences and values impact suicide in Tribal communities.

Culture is prevention, and this session will introduce participants to a range of information and techniques on how culture and allyship with Tribal communities are being used to save lives. Designed to support anyone engaged in suicide prevention, this series can also be helpful to other practitioners, program managers, and providers working at the community level.

988 Day is a national initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and emphasizing the importance of mental health and suicide prevention. Join us on September 8, 2024, in spreading the message "No Judgment. Just Help." and check back often for materials, tools, and ideas to support your own promotional efforts and activities on 988 Day.

Time: 1 p.m. ET

Join the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention #BeThere Twitter/X Chat for a discussion on enhancing suicide prevention strategies, promoting open, safe, and effective communication, and important resources like 988. Throughout September, we encourage you to use #SPM24 on social media to promote hope and help-seeking, and offer support to anyone in need.

Time: 1 p.m. ET

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) is partnering with SAMHSA to host a webinar about suicide prevention among children, youth, and families. This webinar, taking place on World Suicide Prevention Day, will provide an overview of suicide data and risk among these populations, as well as describe suicide prevention strategies for use by organizations and agencies working with children, youth, and families. Presenters and grantee panelists will also describe populations who are disproportionately impacted by suicide—such as American Indian and Alaska Native youth, LGBTQI+ youth, youth involved in the juvenile justice system, and youth and families experiencing homelessness—and strategies to reduce and eliminate these health disparities. They will also share tools and resources that participants can use in their prevention efforts.

Time: 12 - 12:30 p.m. ET

No registration is required for this free event. Watch the live event on NIMH’s Facebook page or YouTube channel.

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month in September, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) are hosting a livestream event on suicide prevention in health care settings.

Suicide is a major cause of death in the United States, and many people at risk of suicide don’t get the mental health care they need. In many cases, people see a health care provider in the weeks or months before a suicide attempt, making medical settings like emergency rooms and doctor’s offices key points for prevention and intervention.

The event will cover:

  • Research supported by NIMH and SAMHSA on improving how we screen for and assess suicide risk and intervene in health care settings.
  • How to apply this research in clinical practice.
  • Ways to seek help for yourself or others.
Last Updated: 08/16/2024