Suicide Prevention Month

You Are Not Alone: Talking About Suicide and Saving Lives

Trigger Warning: This post discusses suicide and suicidal thoughts. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, please contact a mental health professional or call a suicide prevention hotline. You are not alone.

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time when we raise our voices for those who feel voiceless, and open conversations that could save lives.

Suicide is a difficult and painful topic, but it’s also one we cannot afford to ignore. Every year, millions of people around the world silently battle with thoughts of hopelessness, believing that they are a burden, or that things will never get better.

But the truth is: suicide is preventable, and no one has to suffer in silence.

Why Suicide Prevention Matters

According to the World Health Organization, more than 700,000 people die by suicide every year, that’s one person every 40 seconds. But behind those numbers are people with stories, struggles, and potential futures that never got a chance to unfold.

In many cases, the signs were there, but either missed, dismissed, or misunderstood. That’s why awareness and education are key parts of prevention

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Not everyone shows the same signs, but these are some common indicators that someone might be at risk:

• Talking about feeling hopeless, trapped, or being a burden

• Withdrawing from friends, family, or usual activities

• Sudden mood changes, especially calmness after depression

• Giving away personal belongings

• Talking about death, dying, or suicide

• Increased use of alcohol or drugs

If you notice these signs, don’t wait. Reach out, ask, and listen. You don’t need to have all the answers, just being present can be life-saving..

How to Support Someone Who May Be Struggling

Supporting someone who is suicidal can feel overwhelming, but your empathy and presence can make a huge difference:

• Listen without judgment

• Ask directly "Are you thinking about suicide?"

• Encourage professional help: a therapist, counselor, or hotline

• Follow up: stay connected, check in regularly

And remember: you don't need to fix everything. You just need to care and stay connected.

If You Are Struggling Right Now

If you're reading this and you're struggling, please know this:

• You are not weak.

• You are not a burden.

• You are not alone.

There is help, there is hope, and there are people who genuinely want to support you, even if it doesn’t feel that way right now.

This Suicide Prevention Month, let’s break the silence. Whether you're struggling, supporting someone, or just learning, your role matters.

• Share this post

• Start a conversation

• Check on someone you love

Together, we can make mental health a priority and help more people choose life. Need help for yourself or a loved one? We offer confidential support through our mental health services. https://www.therapybyserene.com/book-online

Subscribe to our blog for more mental health education, tools, and support.

Local Help & Support (Bahamas)If you're in the Bahamas and feeling distressed, you’re not alone. Here are trusted places to reach out to:

• Bahamas Psychological Association (BPA) — For psychologists/counsellors who can offer professional assistance. Call: (242) 356‑0039, Email: info@bahamaspsych.org.

• National Hotline for Crisis Intervention — 24/7 support for those feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or in crisis. Tel: (242) 322‑2763 / (242) 422‑2763.

• The Bahamas Crisis Centre — A 24‑hour hotline to speak with someone immediately. Tel: (242) 328‑0922.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

Together in mental health and healing,

The Serenic Mind Team