Date
Monday
Sep

September 1-30

National Suicide Prevention Month

September is National Suicide Prevention Month - join us in supporting those who are struggling and spread awareness about mental health!

Yearly Date
September 1
Type
Month
Category
Health

Introduction

Let's take a moment to honor and recognize the importance of National Suicide Prevention Month, which begins on Sept. 1. This special month was created in order to raise awareness about suicide prevention and to provide resources for those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts or depression. It is an opportunity for us all to come together in solidarity and support one another during this difficult time. We can make a difference by educating ourselves about suicide prevention, providing meaningful help and support for those who need it, and learning how to help those at risk of suicide.

National Suicide Prevention Month Timeline

1958
AAS Founding
The American Association of Suicidology (AAS) was founded to understand and prevent suicide.
1989
First National Suicide Hotline
The first national suicide hotline was established in the United States, providing immediate help to people in crisis.
1995
World Suicide Prevention Day Initiation
The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) initiated the World Suicide Prevention Day, observed annually on September 10th.
2001
National Strategy for Suicide Prevention Launch
The Surgeon General of the United States launched the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, aimed at reducing suicidal acts in the United States through prevention efforts.
2008
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Establishment
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline was established, providing 24/7, free and confidential support and crisis resources for people in distress.
2012
National Suicide Prevention Month Designation
September was officially designated as National Suicide Prevention Month, dedicated to promoting suicide prevention awareness nationwide.

How to Celebrate National Suicide Prevention Month

1

Volunteer

If you want to help raise awareness about suicide prevention, become a volunteer for a suicide prevention organization. You can help spread the message of hope and help those in need.

2

Host an Event

Organize a fundraising event to raise money for suicide prevention organizations. Events can include dinners, concerts, and other activities that bring people together in support of suicide prevention.

3

Spread Awareness

Raise awareness about suicide prevention by sharing online resources and information on social media, in your local community, or through your professional network.

4

Provide Support

Offer your support to those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts or who have been affected by suicide. Listen without judgment and be available to provide emotional support.

5

Encourage Conversation

Encourage open conversations about mental health and suicide prevention by talking to friends, family, and coworkers about the issue. This can help reduce stigma and create a safe space for people to talk.

Why National Suicide Prevention Month is Important

A

Raises awareness of mental health

Observing National Suicide Prevention Month is a great way to raise awareness and understanding around the issue of mental health, as well as start important conversations about suicide. Doing so can help destigmatize mental illness and encourage those who are suffering to seek the help they need.

B

Educates on warning signs and how to get help

During National Suicide Prevention Month, many organizations provide helpful information about suicide prevention and how to recognize the warning signs in yourself or others. This can be an invaluable resource for individuals and families looking for guidance and support on this difficult topic.

C

Motivates us to take action

Recognizing National Suicide Prevention Month reminds us that everyone must do their part to protect the emotional wellbeing of our loved ones. It serves as a powerful motivation for us to reach out, listen and offer kind words of support - even when it may seem small and insignificant - because it makes all the difference.

National Suicide Prevention Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Aug 31
Thursday
2024
Aug 31
Saturday
2025
Aug 31
Sunday
2026
Aug 31
Monday
2027
Aug 31
Tuesday