NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH

National Suicide Prevention Month: A Call to Compassion and Action

Every September, National Suicide Prevention Month serves as a powerful reminder that mental health is a shared responsibility—and that every life is worth saving. Across the country, organizations, advocates, and communities unite to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote resources that can prevent suicide and support those in crisis.

Why This Month Matters

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, affecting individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) emphasizes that this month is about starting conversations, listening without judgment, and ensuring that people know they are not alone. The message is clear: silence can cost lives, but connection can save them.

Key themes for 2025 include:

Understanding Risk and Promoting Resilience

Building Community Partnerships

Improving Access to Care and Support

Centering Lived Experience and Peer Support

Resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) are available 24/7, offering confidential support to anyone in need.

️ The Role of the Consumer Advocate Network (CAN)

The Consumer Advocate Network (CAN), a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals through advocacy and education, has taken a proactive role in supporting Suicide Prevention Month. Known for its commitment to mental health awareness year-round, CAN is amplifying its efforts this September with a series of initiatives designed to foster hope, healing, and connection.

Staff-Led Support and Engagement

The staff at CAN are not just advocates—they're active participants in the movement to prevent suicide. Here's how they're making a difference:

Hosting Community Conversations: CAN staff are organizing small-group discussions that encourage open dialogue about mental health, suicide risk, and recovery. These conversations are designed to break stigma and build trust, especially among underserved populations.

Sharing Lived Experience: Several team members are courageously sharing their personal journeys with mental health challenges, offering hope and solidarity to others who may be struggling. By centering lived experience, CAN fosters empathy and understanding.

Promoting Resources: Throughout the month, CAN is distributing digital toolkits, social media graphics, and educational materials from partners like SAMHSA and NAMI. These resources help individuals recognize warning signs, seek help, and support others.

Encouraging Help-Seeking Behavior: Staff are using their platforms to normalize seeking help, reminding their communities that reaching out is a sign of strength—not weakness. They’re also highlighting the importance of peer-led support and community-based care.

Participating in National Campaigns: CAN is actively involved in national efforts like #BeThere and #SPM25, using these hashtags to spread messages of hope and resilience across social media.

A Shared Mission

The work of CAN during Suicide Prevention Month reflects a broader truth: suicide prevention is not just about crisis intervention—it’s about building a culture of care. By listening, advocating, and connecting, the staff at CAN are helping to create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Help is available. Healing is possible.

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