Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness on this stigmatized, and often taboo, topic. In addition to shifting public perception, we use this month to spread hope and vital information to people affected by suicide.

#BeThe1To is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s message for National Suicide Prevention Month and beyond, which helps spread the word about actions we can all take to prevent suicide.

• Ask Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks after them in a caring way.
• Be There Individuals are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful by after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.
• Keep Them Safe A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline.
• Help Them Stay Connected Helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.
• Follow Up Ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially for individuals after they have been discharged from hospitals or care services.
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The Lifeline network and its partners are working to change the conversation from suicide to suicide prevention, to actions that can promote healing, help and give hope. Learn more here.

If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK.