National Suicide Prevention Month
September is National Suicide Prevention Month - join us in supporting those who are struggling and spread awareness about mental health!
Introduction
September is more than just the turning of the season; it is a deeply meaningful time dedicated to saving lives and spreading hope. During National Suicide Prevention Month, we come together to break the silence that often surrounds mental health and emotional pain. It is a time to share stories of resilience, learn how to truly listen to our loved ones, and remind every single person that their life has value. Whether you are checking in on a friend or seeking support for yourself, this month is a powerful reminder that you are never alone, healing is possible, and there is strength in asking for help.
💜 National Suicide Prevention Month Countdown
Wednesday
1
September 2027
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National Suicide Prevention Month Timeline
1958
AAS Founding
The American Association of Suicidology (AAS) was founded to understand and prevent suicide.
1989
First National Suicide Hotline
The first national suicide hotline was established in the United States, providing immediate help to people in crisis.
1995
World Suicide Prevention Day Initiation
The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) initiated the World Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on September 10th.
2001
National Strategy for Suicide Prevention Launch
The Surgeon General of the United States launched the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, aimed at reducing suicidal acts in the United States through prevention efforts.
2008
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Establishment
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline was established, providing 24/7, free and confidential support and crisis resources for people in distress.
2012
National Suicide Prevention Month Designation
September was officially designated as National Suicide Prevention Month, dedicated to promoting suicide prevention awareness nationwide.
How to Celebrate National Suicide Prevention Month
1
Host an Event
Organize a fundraising event to raise money for suicide prevention organizations. Events can include dinners, concerts, and other activities that bring people together in support of suicide prevention.
2
Volunteer
If you want to help raise awareness about suicide prevention, become a volunteer for a suicide prevention organization. You can help spread the message of hope and help those in need.
3
Spread Awareness
Raise awareness about suicide prevention by sharing online resources and information on social media, in your local community, or through your professional network.
4
Encourage Conversation
Encourage open conversations about mental health and suicide prevention by talking to friends, family, and coworkers about the issue. This can help reduce stigma and create a safe space for people to talk.
5
Provide Support
Offer your support to those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts or who have been affected by suicide. Listen without judgment and be available to provide emotional support.
Why National Suicide Prevention Month is Important
A
Educates on warning signs and how to get help
During National Suicide Prevention Month, many organizations provide helpful information about suicide prevention and how to recognize the warning signs in yourself or others. This can be an invaluable resource for individuals and families looking for guidance and support on this difficult topic.
B
Motivates us to take action
Recognizing National Suicide Prevention Month reminds us that everyone must do their part to protect the emotional wellbeing of our loved ones. It serves as a powerful motivation for us to reach out, listen and offer kind words of support - even when it may seem small and insignificant - because it makes all the difference.
C
Raises awareness of mental health
Observing National Suicide Prevention Month is a great way to raise awareness and understanding around the issue of mental health, as well as start important conversations about suicide. Doing so can help destigmatize mental illness and encourage those who are suffering to seek the help they need.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Suicide Prevention Month?
This month of hope and awareness officially begins on September 1st, Wednesday, 2027, kicking off thirty days dedicated to saving lives.
What is the main purpose of this month?
The goal is to shift public perception, spread hope, and share vital information to help people recognize warning signs and support those in crisis.
What is the new suicide prevention number in the US?
You can simply call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which connects you to trained counselors 24/7.
What are the official colors for suicide prevention?
Teal and purple are the colors most commonly used to represent suicide prevention and awareness.
When is World Suicide Prevention Day?
It is observed globally on September 10th every year, a specific day within the month to focus on worldwide commitment to action.
How can I help a friend who is struggling?
Listen without judgment, ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide, and help connect them to professional resources like 988.
Is the 988 lifeline free to use?
Yes, the service is completely free, confidential, and available to everyone in the United States at any time of day or night.
What does the semicolon symbol mean?
It symbolizes that an author could have chosen to end their sentence but chose not to; the author is you, and the sentence is your life.
Are there specific warning signs to look for?
Common signs include withdrawing from friends, extreme mood swings, giving away possessions, or talking about feeling like a burden.
Can suicide really be prevented?
Yes, suicide is often preventable because most people experiencing suicidal thoughts want relief from pain, not to end their lives, and treatment helps.
What should I do if I see a concerning post on social media?
Report the post to the platform's safety team immediately and reach out to the person or their close friends to ensure they are safe.
Is there support specifically for veterans?
Yes, veterans can dial 988 and then press 1 to be connected specifically to the Veterans Crisis Line.
Why do people put candles in their windows this month?
Lighting a candle near a window at 8 PM on September 10th is a tradition to remember lost loved ones and show support for survivors.
Where can I find resources to share online?
You can find graphics, toolkits, and helpful guides on the websites of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) or the 988 Lifeline.
Top Emojis for National Suicide Prevention Month
💜
Support and Solidarity
This heart represents deep compassion for those struggling and solidarity with the survivors of suicide loss.
📞
Lifeline Connection
A vital reminder of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, showing that professional help is free, confidential, and just a call away.
🕯️
Light In The Darkness
Used to honor the memory of those we have lost and to symbolize bringing hope into the darkest moments of life.
🫂
Here For You
This shows you are a safe space, ready to offer a comforting hug, a listening ear, and a non-judgmental presence.
💙💜
Suicide Prevention Colors
Teal and purple are the official colors of suicide prevention awareness, worn to show visible support for the cause.
💚
Mental Health Awareness
The green heart is the universal symbol for mental health, representing open conversations and emotional well-being.
National Suicide Prevention Month Dates
Year
Date
Day
2026
Sep 1
Tuesday
2027
Sep 1
Wednesday
2028
Sep 1
Friday
2029
Sep 1
Saturday
2030
Sep 1
Sunday
