September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day.
It is a day to bring greater awareness to suicide prevention and to remind people that connection can be a powerful part of supporting someone who is struggling.
For some people, suicide prevention can feel like a distant topic—something that happens to other people or something that only becomes relevant during a major crisis.
But prevention can also happen in ordinary moments.
It can happen when we notice that someone seems different.
When we send the text.
When we sit with someone instead of trying to immediately fix the situation.
When we ask a second time after someone says, "I'm fine."
Pain Doesn't Always Look Like a Crisis
Someone can be deeply struggling and still appear "fine."
They may laugh with friends.
Go to work.
Take care of their children.
Post on social media.
Keep appointments.
Answer, "I'm good," when someone asks how they're doing.
We can't always know what someone is carrying simply by looking at them.
That's why connection matters.
What Can You Do?
You don't need specialized training to let someone know you care.
You can start with curiosity instead of assumptions.
Try:
"You seem like you've had a lot on your plate lately. How are you holding up?"
"I've noticed you've been more withdrawn. Do you want to talk?"
"You don't have to explain everything. I just want you to know I'm here."
If you're concerned that someone may be thinking about suicide, it is okay to ask directly.
And if they tell you they are struggling, resist the urge to immediately solve the problem.
Sometimes people need someone to listen before they're ready to hear solutions.
What If You're the One Who Is Struggling?
You deserve support too.
You don't have to prove that your pain is "bad enough" before asking for help.
You don't have to wait until you know exactly what you need.
You can simply start with:
"I'm not doing well, and I don't know what to do next."
That is enough of a reason to reach out.
Therapy can provide a space to slow down, understand what is happening beneath the surface, and begin identifying ways forward.
If you're in immediate crisis, call or text 988 in the United States to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
If you're in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Prevention Is About Connection
Suicide prevention isn't only about knowing the warning signs.
It's about creating relationships and communities where people feel safe enough to say:
"I'm struggling."
"I don't know how to do this."
"I'm scared."
"I need help."
"I'm not okay."
This September, let's make room for those conversations.
You don't have to carry it alone.
Tools for Reconnecting With Yourself
You don't have to be in crisis to begin paying attention to your emotional wellbeing.
Sometimes we know we need something to change, but we're not sure where to start.
The Keys to Felicity Workbook was created as a 12-week guided experience for reflection, self-awareness, and intentional growth.
If you've been feeling disconnected from yourself or unsure about what comes next, the workbook can give you a structured place to begin exploring those questions.
Start Your Keys to Felicity Journey →
Want to do the work with other people?
The upcoming Keys to Felicity cohort will provide a structured group experience built around the 12-week workbook.
Participants will have the opportunity to move through the material together while reflecting on their experiences, patterns, values, needs, and vision for their lives.
Join the Keys to Felicity Cohort Interest List →
A Note From Felicity Counseling Services
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, call or text 988 in the United States. If there is immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
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