September is National Suicide Prevention Month – a time to remember the lives lost to suicide, acknowledge the millions more who have experienced suicidal thoughts, and the many individuals, families, and communities that have been impacted by suicide.  

Mental health experts with Saint Vincent hospital say it’s also a time to raise awareness about suicide prevention and share messages of hope. 

Such discussions regarding mental health are critical when it comes to recognizing and understanding the warning signs that someone might be considering suicide, says William Meehan, MD, PhD, Medical Director of the Partial Hospital Program in Saint Vincent Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry. 

“Suicide awareness is incredibly important because we can all work together to decrease the risk of this tragic outcome,” says Dr. Meehan. “Understanding the issues regarding suicide and mental health is an important step in helping ourselves, helping others, and positively reframing the conversation around mental health.” 

While there is no one sign that someone might be considering suicide, Dr. Meehan says that risk factors have been identified. Risk factors include hopelessness ; social isolation ; a history of depression or other mental illness ; major life stressors such as job/financial problems, relationship problems/loss, or legal problems; serious illness such as chronic pain; substance use ; a history of being bullied or abused ; previous suicide attempt(s) ; and recent treatment at an inpatient psychiatric hospital .

Fortunately, protective factors have also been identified, including:

• Support from partners, family, and friends
• Feeling connected to others, including feeling connected to school and other social institutions
• Availability of consistent, high quality physical and behavioral healthcare
• Reduced access to lethal means of suicide

According to Dr. Meehan, family, friends and the community can all play an important role in reducing the risk of suicide by simply being aware of those around us and caring for their well-being.  “A person considering suicide might talk about being a burden to others or feeling hopeless,” he says. “Other warning signs can include isolation from family and friends, giving away prized possessions, and new or increased aggression.” 

If you are concerned about someone, reach out to them, and let them know you care. It can be helpful to say, “I know that when people are feeling really depressed, they sometimes think of suicide. Have you ever thought about that?” Asking does not increase risk, and may help someone to feel less isolated and alone. You can mention the 24-hour suicide prevention hotline, which can be accessed by dialing 988. You can also encourage seeking professional help. If the risk is immediate, calling 911 or going to an emergency room is the safest option

For anyone reading this who is considering suicide, please do not hesitate to reach out for help. You are not alone.  

“Whether you, or someone you know, might have mental health concerns or thoughts of suicide, be open and don’t be afraid to speak to someone,” Dr. Meehan says. “We all have mental health just as we have physical health, and help is available.” 

To learn more about Saint Vincent Hospital Partial Hospital Program , which is designed to help adults in a mental health crisis, including adults experiencing thoughts of suicide , visit here.