Slow-Down September: Observing National Suicide Prevention Month
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know that you are not alone. Help is available. The National Institutes of Mental Health provides a wealth of information and resources on suicide prevention, including a crisis hotline and online chat services. You can find more information at the National Institute of Mental Health. If you need to talk to someone right now, please dial the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988. You are also welcome to reach out to me at the contact info at the bottom of this page, or via social media dm.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and the goal of those observing and promoting the event is to both raise awareness about the dangers and signs, and ways you can help, among friends and family members of individuals who may be suffering and to provide a surge of visible support to struggling individuals who simply do not know where to turn for help.
September is the perfect month to talk about mental health and suicide… While many of us are feeling energized and refreshed as we head into the fall, it's important to remember that not everyone is experiencing the same positive energy. For some, this time of year can be a trigger for feelings of stress, anxiety, and even despair. September, with its back-to-school energy and renewed focus, can be a particularly challenging time for those who are already feeling stretched thin. The pressure to excel, to meet expectations, and to maintain a perfect image can feel overwhelming. And for some, the weight of these expectations can become too much to bear.
It’s easy to think that those who seem to have it all together—the high-achievers, the overachievers—are immune to the struggle, self-doubt, and performance anxiety that “the rest of us” feel regularly. But the truth is, those “got-it-together” individuals are very often already living at the very edge of their tolerance for pressure, and their polished and shiny exterior is just a mask. Burnout, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts often lurk beneath the surface.
As a mental health professional, I've seen firsthand how the pursuit of perfection can lead to a dangerous cycle of self-doubt, shame, and isolation. Those who are constantly striving for excellence often feel like they're falling short. They may be afraid to admit their vulnerabilities or seek help, believing that doing so would be a sign of weakness.
But the truth is, reaching out for support is a sign of strength. It takes courage to acknowledge that you're struggling and to ask for help. And it's important to remember that you're not alone. Many people are facing similar challenges.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or hopeless, please know that there is help available. Reach out to a friend, family member, or mental health professional. Talking about your feelings can be a powerful way to cope with stress and prevent it from escalating into something more serious.
Remember, it's okay to not be okay. It's okay to ask for help. And it's important to prioritize your mental health.
Let's create a safe space where we can talk openly about our struggles and support one another. Together, we can break down the stigma surrounding mental health and help those who are suffering. I’m here for you.
Here are some helpful resources:
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
