If life were a book, most of us would skip ahead from time to time. We’d flip past the awkward moments, the painful chapters, and pretend that the chapters where everything falls apart didn’t actually exist. If we couldn’t skip a certain chapter, we would reluctantly push through, hoping that the next chapter is better.
But when someone is struggling with depression, it can feel like they’re stuck in a part of their story that never ends. The pages become heavy, the plot becomes hopeless, and the future feels out of reach. Caught up in the storm or feeling like they’ve hit rock bottom, some may feel like the story would be better if it ended early.
Why Suicide Awareness Matters
Suicide is a major public health concern and one of the leading causes of death in the United States [1]. Research shows that there are typically warning signs before someone chooses to take their own life. Awareness saves lives.
Every year, NAMI recognizes Suicide Prevention Month to raise awareness and encourage each one of us to check on our loved ones, colleagues, or even a stranger on the street. This September, you can make a difference by getting curious about others, starting a conversation, and truly listening. Learn more about how you can make a difference, below:
Recognizing Signs of Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors
Suicidal ideations are often preceded by signs of depression.
Common signs include:
Persistent sadness or feelings of hopelessness
Loss of interest in activities/hobbies that were once enjoyed
Changes in sleep or appetite
Fatigue, lethargy, lack of energy
Difficulty concentrating
Increased irritability or withdrawal from others [2]
Warning Signs of Suicidal Thoughts of Behaviors
If you suspect someone is struggling with depression, pay special attention to warning signs that they might have suicidal ideas. Seek immediate help if this person demonstrates the following:
Talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden
Expressing feelings of hopelessness about the future
Giving away their belongings/possessions
Withdrawing/isolating from friends or family
Sudden, noticeable bursts of energy, especially after a period of depression
What to Do If You Suspect Someone is Struggling
If you suspect someone is struggling with suicidal ideations, trust your instincts, stay in the conversation, and seek professional support. Listen without judgement and ask questions. Asking someone if they are thinking about suicide does not increase their risk, it helps them feel seen and supported. Don’t be afraid to ask.
National Suicide Prevention Month is a reminder that everyone has a story, and every story matters…even the messy ones, the overwhelming ones, and the ones where nothing seems to be going right. This month is a reminder that sometimes the most important thing we can do is to take the time to listen to someone else’s story and together recognize that it’s worth discovering what happens in the next chapter. Because their story isn’t over yet.
Crisis Resources from NAMI
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately
You can also chat with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org
About the Author
As a purpose-driven optimist, Abby Rallo pairs her experience as an educator with her duty to serve as a registered nurse to provide hope to humans. She is a firm believer that ‘giving makes you richer’ and even on her worst day, she aims to spread joy and kindness to others.
Learn more about how Abby combines her values with innovative, evidence-based therapeutic programming at vialindabehavioral.com
References
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]. (2026). Leading causes of death. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/leading-causes-of-death.htm
[2] Chand, S.P. & Arif, H. (2023). Depression. StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430847/
[3] National Alliance on Mental Health [NAMI]. (2025). Suicide prevention month. https://www.nami.org/stay-connected/events/awareness-events/suicide-prevention-month/
