Mental Health Memo Contributor

Tracy Naughton

Suicide Prevention Program Specialist

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of suicide prevention. Throughout the month, individuals, communities, and organizations unite in renewed efforts to foster understanding, provide support, and share vital resources. This annual effort aims at saving lives. It’s a powerful reminder that mental health matters and that by opening up conversations, offering compassion, and reducing stigma, we can create a supportive environment where people feel safe to seek help. This month is an important opportunity to educate, advocate, and show solidarity with those affected by suicide. Everyone has a role to play—by listening, reaching out, and showing care, we can help prevent suicide and support those who may be struggling.

If you are experiencing any kind of mental health distress, sharing your thoughts with someone else might be intimidating. Letting someone know what you are feeling makes your experience less isolating and makes it easier to get the help you need. Here are a few ways you can start that conversation with someone:

• “I am having suicidal thoughts. Can we talk?”
• “I don’t feel safe right now. Are you free to talk?”
• “I don’t want to die, but I am in so much pain. Can you come with me to get help?”

If someone close to you is experiencing thoughts of suicide, you can have a powerful and positive impact on them. Here are some warning signs to look out for if someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts:

• Talking about being a burden to others;
• Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain;
• A lack or withdrawal from their normal activities or interests; and
• Concerning social media posts or texts.

It’s extremely important to take any signs about suicide seriously. Asking someone if they are having thoughts of suicide does not cause it or put the idea in their head, in fact, asking the person directly shows that you care and may encourage the person to open up. Asking the question might be hard, but here are some examples to start:

• “Are you thinking about ending your life?”
• “I’m here for you.”
• “I want to help you get help.”
• “I care about you, and you matter to me.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with an emotional issue, mental health distress, substance use concerns, or thoughts of suicide, the 988 Lifeline is available 24/7, 365, at no cost. Individuals can call, text, or chat 988 and be directly connected to a local professional at the Helpline Center, operated in Sioux Falls.

All South Dakotans can play a role in reducing the stigma. This can be done by normalizing conversations about mental health. By talking openly about mental health and suicide in schools, workplaces, and communities, it allows others to see that they are not alone in their struggles. Encourage people to ask for help without the fear of judgement. Shift the way you speak about suicide; try to use non-stigmatizing language. Avoid terms like “committed suicide,” as that implies crime or sin, and use “died by suicide” instead. Host a community training on suicide prevention or distribute materials that promote suicide prevention.

To amplify your efforts, use the SD Behavioral Health Suicide Prevention Month Toolkit, which offers a variety of resources including social media content, blog and image assets, HR email templates, and printable materials.

To become involved in a walk or event in your community, visit the “Events” page on the South Dakota Suicide Prevention website. For more resources and how you can help prevent suicide, visit the South Dakota Suicide Prevention Website.

Let’s come together this September to spread hope, raise awareness, and save lives!