This Suicide Prevention Month, Learn How To Make A Difference
Mental health issues are more prevalent than ever, much more common than many people realize. Friendly conversation and smiles can be used to cover up hidden internal struggles. At Sillon Wellness, we understand how important it is for people to know they don’t have to face their problems on their own. September is Suicide Prevention Month, and we want to take this time to focus on how to raise awareness, share resources and work to diminish the stigma that comes along with suicide and mental health.
Why Suicide Awareness Matters
Suicide is never a fun topic to talk about, but avoiding it doesn’t stop it from happening. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in America, but it’s also one of the most preventable – if people are aware of what to look for and how to handle it. Speaking openly about it lets people know they aren’t alone while amplifying life-saving information.
Signs To Watch For
When it comes to recognizing someone is struggling, it isn’t always as obvious as you’d expect. Some people mask their pain, while others display more evident symptoms. Watch for these signs:
- Isolating themselves
- Lack of interest or motivation
- Change in sleep and/or eating habits
- Impaired judgement
- Alcohol or drug use
- Neglecting hygiene
- Hopelessness
- Sudden mood changes
- Suicidal comments
Always trust your gut if something feels off and don’t hesitate to take action.
Support Leads to Suicide Prevention
Whether the signs are subtle or obvious, it’s important to reach out if you’re feeling concerned about someone. Approach the conversation in a calm, compassionate manner, validating what they have to say while being an active listener. It’s okay to ask directly if they have been thinking about suicide – sometimes a direct conversation can lead the way toward more actionable steps. They may or may not feel completely comfortable opening up to you, and that’s okay, too. Let them know that you are there if they need you, and be sure to share resources with them that they can use to move forward toward getting better.
Resources for Suicide Prevention
For someone struggling, there are resources available to help in a variety of ways. This may look like immediate assistance, important education or access to support for more long-term help.
- Sillon Wellness: A team of experienced therapists that provide a variety of evidence-based treatments geared toward your specific mental health needs.
- SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration): An agency within the United States Department of Health and Human Services that provides information on services and treatments for both mental health and substance abuse issues.
- Texas Suicide Prevention Collaborative: A nonprofit organization that aims to strengthen suicide prevention in Texas by providing resources and information to educate, raise awareness and find support.
- 988 LIfeline: Available throughout the United States, the 988 lifeline gives direct access to trained counselors 24/7 by simply calling or texting 988.
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Available for those struggling with mental health and their loved ones, NAMI offers education, advocacy and peer support. If you are interested in supporting NAMI on a local level, NAMIWalks San Antonio takes place on Saturday, September 27. This walk helps raise awareness and provide funding to the organization.
If you are concerned someone is an immediate danger to themselves, you can drive them to the nearest emergency room or call 911 and ask for mental health support.
Action Leads To More Awareness
Taking action is the best way to create change. Take the time to actively learn about suicide including the warning signs, check in on your loved ones, and consider participating in fundraising and awareness events. We’re proud to have a team from our Colorado locations participating in the Race Against Suicide to benefit Pike’s Peak Suicide Prevention Partnership on September 21, 2025. This event – and others like it – raise money to fund community training, education for schools, counseling services, peer groups and more.
Sillon Wellness Is Committed To Suicide Prevention
Sillon Wellness believes in the importance of prioritizing mental health. Understanding yourself and cultivating the correct tools to move past your specific struggles can lead to a happier, more fulfilling life while lowering the risk for suicide. By opening up about our struggles to one another, we increase understanding while erasing stigma, creating a world more compassionate and understanding. To be a part of the change, we suggest learning the warning signs, saving local resources and checking in on the people in your life regularly.
For those struggling with mental health, Sillon Wellness can help. Schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation to get started. If you or someone in your life is currently in crisis, please call or text 988 immediately. You are not alone in how you feel, and you deserve to get better.
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