National Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. It is a time to raise awareness and remind people they are not alone For me, this month carries a personal weight.

In 2020, my sister died by suicide. Losing her was not just the loss of a sister, but the loss of a future. birthdays, phone calls, laughter, and the simple comfort of knowing she was there. Suicide does not only end one life; it leaves something missing in all the lives around it.

I cannot tell you I have all the answers, because I do not. What I can say is that silence makes the struggle heavier. If you are hurting, please reach out before you carry it alone for too long. Call a friend. Text someone you trust. Or dial 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the United States. There are people trained to listen, to walk with you through the darkest moments.

And for those of us who love someone who is struggling, check in. Ask twice if they are really okay. Be willing to sit in the silence with them. Sometimes, knowing someone cares enough to stay can make all the difference.

I wish my sister had reached out. I wish she had known just how loved she was. My hope in sharing this is that someone reading these words will choose connection over silence, hope over despair.

Your life matters. Your voice matters. The world is better with you in it. 💛💜💙

Resources

📞 United States: Dial or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.

🌍 International:

• Canada: Dial or text 988

• UK & Ireland: Samaritans available at 116 123

• Australia: Lifeline available at 13 11 14

• Find worldwide hotlines: findahelpline.com