September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time dedicated to breaking the stigma, sharing resources, and reminding those who are struggling that they are not alone. At reNEW YOU Counseling, we believe these conversations are essential year-round, but this month offers a meaningful opportunity to shine a light on suicide awareness, prevention, and support.
Suicide is a difficult and heavy topic, but it’s one we cannot ignore. More than 700,000 people die per year due to suicide, according to the International Association for Suicide Prevention. By raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and extending compassion, we can create space for healing and hope.
Below, we’ll explore some important aspects of suicide awareness, including how it may show up differently across ages, the connection and differences between self-harm and suicide, and how families and loved ones can recognize the warning signs and offer support.
Suicide in Teens vs. Adults
While suicide impacts people of all ages, the warning signs and contributing factors can look different in teens compared to adults.
- Teens: Adolescents may experience overwhelming emotions related to school pressures, friendships, family dynamics, or identity struggles. Warning signs can include withdrawal from friends, a drop in school performance, mood swings, changes in sleep or eating habits, and giving away belongings. Social media use may also amplify feelings of isolation or hopelessness.
- Adults: In adults, suicide risk often stems from chronic stress, financial strain, relationship struggles, job loss, or untreated mental health conditions. Signs may include expressions of hopelessness, drastic changes in behavior, substance use, or withdrawing from work and family responsibilities.
Recognizing these differences helps us respond more effectively to the unique challenges each age group faces.
Self-Harm vs. Suicide
It’s important to understand the distinction between self-harm and suicide, as each requires a slightly different response and level of intervention:
Self-Harm: Self-harm, such as cutting, burning, or hitting oneself, is often used as a coping mechanism to manage intense or overwhelming emotions. While it doesn’t always indicate a desire to die, it is still a serious warning sign that the individual is struggling and needs support.
Call to Action for Self-Harm:
- Approach the person with empathy and without judgment.
- Encourage them to talk about their feelings and seek professional help, such as a therapist, counselor, or mental health provider.
- Remove or reduce access to means of harm when possible and ensure ongoing support and monitoring.
Suicide: Suicide involves the intent to end one’s life. It is a medical and emotional emergency. While not everyone who self-harms is suicidal, self-harm can increase the risk of suicide over time.
Call to Action for Suicide:
- Take any talk, threat, or sign of suicide seriously—never assume it’s “attention-seeking.”
- If someone expresses suicidal thoughts or intentions, stay with them and connect them immediately to trained professionals.
- Contact emergency services if there is an immediate risk (911 in the U.S.) or call/text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
- Encourage long-term support through therapy, counseling, or support groups.
Both self-harm and suicidal thoughts are signals that someone is in distress and needs help. Prompt, compassionate intervention can save lives and support long-term healing.
Support for Families
When someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts, their family and friends are impacted too. It can feel confusing, frightening, and overwhelming to know how to help. Some ways families can provide support include:
- Listening without judgment and validating feelings.
- Encouraging professional help (therapy, counseling, medication management).
- Staying connected and checking in regularly.
- Removing means of self-harm when possible (medications, weapons).
- Seeking support for themselves through counseling or support groups.
Remember: supporting a loved one doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means showing up with compassion and persistence.
Warning Signs
Recognizing the signs of suicide risk can be life-saving. While every person’s experience is unique, there are common red flags that may indicate someone is struggling more deeply than they let on. Being aware of these signs—in teens, adults, and the elderly—can help loved ones step in with care, support, and connection to professional help.
In Teens and Loved Ones:
- Talking or joking about death or suicide.
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities.
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior.
- Risk-taking behavior or reckless choices.
- Expressions of feeling like a burden.
In Adults and the Elderly:
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs.
- Talking about feeling trapped, hopeless, or having no reason to live.
- Withdrawing from social and work life.
- Giving away belongings or settling affairs.
- A noticeable decline in health or self-care.
You Are Not Alone
If you or someone you love is struggling, please know that help is available. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or a mental health professional. Crisis resources are also available 24/7.
📞 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988
At reNEW YOU Counseling, we are here to walk alongside you with care, support, and resources for healing. Together, we can break the silence and help create hope.
🌿 If you or your loved one could benefit from counseling, we invite you to reach out to us. Visit www.renewyoucounseling.org to learn more about our services or contact our office directly by emailing info@renewyoucounseling.org or give us a call at (484) 205-9827.