We See You. We Hear You. You have a voice.

National Suicide Prevention Month

September is a month to remember, to listen, and to act. If you’re struggling, you are not alone. If someone you know is struggling, you can help.

“I know what it feels like to be pushed to the edge…physically, spiritually, emotionally. Hope isn’t some distant idea; it’s the next person who asks, ‘You good?’ Don’t wait. Make that call. Make that text. Be the reason someone lives another day.

And if you’re hurting, remember this: your life is a gift. Even in the darkest night, morning always comes. Hope is stronger than despair, and love is louder than silence. Stand, breathe, reach out…because the world is waiting for the light only you can bring.” — Ray Lewis

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to pause, reach out, and turn silence into connection. At Ray of Hope, we believe hope is an action: it looks like one person checking in on another, one honest conversation, one moment of courage to ask for help.

Suicide is a public health crisis, but it is preventable. Learning the warning signs, knowing how to respond, and sharing resources can save lives. Simple actions…asking a direct question, staying with someone, removing means of immediate harm, and helping them connect with care, make a real difference. The National Institute of Mental Health’s five action steps are practical and proven ways to help someone in crisis.

How to Help: 5 Steps

• Ask directly: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?” Asking won’t plant the idea, it invites honesty.
• Listen without judgment: Let them speak, show you care, and keep your tone calm and present.
• Keep them safe: Remove immediate means of harm if possible while you get help.
• Help connect: Offer to call 988with them, look up local crisis centers, or help schedule an appointment.
• Follow up: Check in after the worst moment has passed, presence reduces isolation and risk.

👉 NIMH: Suicide Prevention — How to Help Someone Who Is Having Thoughts of Suicide CLICK HERE

Why This Matters

Communities that talk openly about mental health lower stigma and make it safer to seek help. Organizations across the country are leaning in this September with toolkits, events, and resources to help us all take action.

Resources & Immediate Help

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline— Call or text 988 (24/7, free & confidential): https://988lifeline.org/
• NIMH: Five Action Steps: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/suicide-prevention-how-to-help-someone-who-is-having-thoughts-of-suicide
• SAMHSA Suicide Prevention Month Toolkit: https://www.samhsa.gov/suicide
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): https://afsp.org/
• NAMI: Suicide Prevention Awareness: https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Suicide-Prevention-Awareness-Month
• CDC: Suicide Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/index.html

If you or someone you love is in immediate danger, please call 911. If you’re struggling but safe, reach out to someone you trust today. You are not alone, and your story is not finished.

Share this blog with everyone. Let’s bring awareness and hope to the forefront. We see you. We hear you. You have a voice.