National Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. All month, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness.

The idea that people who talk about suicide are just trying to get attention is a myth. People who die by suicide are in pain and oftentimes reach out for help because they do not know what to do and have lost hope. Always take talk about suicide seriously. Always.

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for teens from all demographics. Only accidents kill more young people. Take time to check in with the young people in your life. Make sure they’re okay. If they’re not, get them connected to a mental health professional.

As part of a 7-film series, Silent Images has produced a 7-part film series entitled "Compass and Light". One of the seven short films is on suicide. The film weaves personal stories and professional input into a hopeful narrative.

Watch the full film on Compass and Light: A Series on Mental Health - Silent Images

If you or someone you know is suffering from suicide ideation please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-9255. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

Also, you can find more mental health, suicide prevention information and resources at :

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-9255
• American Foundation of Suicide Prevention
• American Foundation of Suicide Prevention Illinois
• SAMHSA
• Same Here Global Mental Health Movement

Please use the hashtags: #BeHereTomorrow  #StopSuicide  #YouAreNotAlone in support of Suicide Prevention.