Changing the Narrative on Suicide — National Suicide Prevention Month

Every September, we are reminded of a difficult truth: suicide affects millions of people and families each year. This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” reminds us to move beyond discussion and change how we, as families, friends, and communities, respond. Instead of responding with silence, shame, or judgment, people need openness, compassion, and support.  

Changing the way we think means moving away from blame and stigma and focusing on prevention and care. It is about making mental health support easy to reach, creating safe spaces, and building systems that help people before things get to a worse point. When schools, workplaces, health services, and governments step in early, lives can truly be saved.  

Every 40 seconds, somewhere in the world, a person dies by suicide (WHO, 2021). Behind each number is a person with dreams, struggles, relationships, and a story worth saving.  

The Role of Isolation, Substances, and Later Life  

Feeling lonely is one of the biggest risks, especially for older adults who may have lost a partner, are dealing with health problems, or feel cut off from others. Struggling with alcohol or substance use can also make feelings of hopelessness worse and lower self-control, making life feel even heavier. That is why noticing these struggles and reaching out early can make a huge difference.  

Warning Signs to Watch Out For  

Suicide does not usually happen without signs. People may start talking about feeling hopeless, withdrawing from loved ones, changes in eating or sleeping, using more alcohol or substances, or giving away valued belongings. Not every situation can be predicted, but noticing these changes and responding with care can give someone the time, space, and hope they need to hold on.  

How Suicide Affects Loved Ones  

The pain of suicide does not just touch the person struggling; it extends to families, friends, and the entire community. Every attempt or loss leaves loved ones behind with guilt, grief, and unanswered questions.  

During therapy, a client who survived a suicide attempt shared how, afterwards, people blamed her family, saying they could not stop her, even criticizing the way she was raised and the lack of open communication at home. That judgment made the family’s pain even heavier and healing much harder.  

This is why families need support as well. They do not need blame or criticism; they need compassion, safe spaces, and the chance to heal alongside their loved ones.   

What we can do  

We all have a part to play. Because of stigma, many people who think about suicide do not know who to turn to. But asking directly about suicidal thoughts does not plant the idea; it opens a door. Listening without judgment, staying with them, removing immediate means of harm, and helping them connect with professional support can be lifesaving. Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is simply sit with someone in their darkest moment and show them they are not alone.   

Learn the warning signs and notice changes in the people around you. Talk openly, listen with care, and help reduce risks where you can. Check in on people who may be feeling lonely or struggling with addiction.  

Having suicidal thoughts doesn’t mean someone is weak; it usually means they are in deep pain and do not know another way out. By changing the narrative from stigma to compassion, we can offer hope and connection. Every single conversation matters. Sometimes, just being there for someone is enough to give them another chance at life.